Criminological research often focuses on juvenile delinquency and criminality. Trait, social process, and social structure theories can all be used to explain why juveniles engage in crime.
Consider the first three steps of the Criminal Justice Decision Making Model, and think about the questions associated with each as you prepare to write your paper:
Step One: Define the problem (and the questions that need to be answered). Provide a definition of each class of theories listed above. Also provide an example of a theory from each of the three general classes.
Step Two: Gather evidence (law, policy, procedure, data) and evaluate for relevancy. Explore the prevalence of juvenile crimes in your state. Approximately how many crimes are committed by juveniles? Which crime is the most prolific?
Step Three: Weigh moral considerations and direct/indirect consequences. Were you surprised at the rate of juvenile delinquency/criminality? Should more attention be paid to it?
Sample Solution