Sociological Theories of Crime and Deviance

What this unit covers

The page is built mostly from mind maps, with flashcard decks, quizzes, slide sets and notes alongside them. Together they follow the main sociological explanations of crime. There are maps on Marxist Theory of Crime, which looks at criminogenic capitalism and working-class crime, and on Realist Theories, which sets right realism beside left realism. The Interactionist view of Crime and deviance map starts from the idea that there is no such thing as a deviant act, only acts that are labelled as deviant.

Wider topics

Several resources move beyond the core theories. Gender, Crime & Justice opens with the point that most convicted offenders are male. The feminist map on male dominance in the study of crime brings in Heidensohn. Other maps cover ethnicity and crime, social class and crime, and the dark figure of crime. Newer themes include Globalisation and Crime, State Crime and Green Crime, which uses Nigel South's definition of a crime against the environment.

Where to start

Begin with a broad map such as Theories of Crime or Functionalist Explanations of Crime and Deviance (Including Subcultural Theories). Then move to the Marxist and realist maps, then interactionism, then the topics on gender, ethnicity and globalisation. If you are revising for GCSE Sociology, the notes on crime and deviance within Unit 2 are a useful way in. A-level Criminology and WJEC Criminology students will find related material in the wider theory maps.

Using quizzes and maps together

1. Read a map and try to explain each branch in your own words.
2. Take a quiz such as Left Realism or Measurement of crime to see what stuck.
3. Go back to the map for any gaps.
4. Use a flashcard deck, for example Functionalist theories of crime, for quick repeat practice.

Where it fits

This unit sits in the Theories of Crime strand of Criminology. Teachers can set a map as a starter or a quiz as a short check. When you are ready, choose one theory and build your own map or flashcards from what you have learned.