Criminology : Crime Theories

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for Criminology

varsity tutors app store varsity tutors android store

Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Criminology

__________ theory states that an individual has free will and will choose to commit a criminal act only after weighing the ends and the means by way of a cost-benefit analysis that identifies the crime as beneficial.

Possible Answers:

Social structure

Rational choice

Labeling

Life choice

Sociological 

Correct answer:

Rational choice

Explanation:

"Rational choice" is the correct answer. Under the tenants of rational choice theory, individuals have free will and will perform actions after performing calculations that weigh the costs and benefits of the ends and means of an act. This theory proposes that individuals commit criminal acts because the individual identified the crime as a rational means to an end after performing a cost-benefit analysis given the circumstances.

Learning Tools by Varsity Tutors