Criminological Theories: Key Perspectives and Models

The Classical School of Criminology

The Classical school posits a higher order subordinated to positive law. They believe education and freedom are key factors in reducing crime, utilizing abstract, formal, and deductive study methods. Their approach is defined by five principles:

• Focus on the criminal problem.
• Priority of the act over the author.
• Offender normality.
• Rationality of crime.
• Situational explanation of the offense.

They advocate for reforming the penal system to make it more effective, though they are often criticized for ignoring the reality of the offender and focusing exclusively on the criminal act.

Merton and the Theory of Anomie

Merton views anomie not as a temporary absence of rules, but as a permanent state caused by a lack of correlation between culturally acquired desires and the actual possibilities for achieving them. Those disadvantaged by this gap experience stress, leading to five distinct types of adaptation regarding goals and means (CIRRR).

Hirschi: Social Bond Theory

Hirschi argues that crime is a product of weak social ties. The mechanisms of social bonding include:

• Attachment: Bonds with other people.
• Commitment: Fear of losing social standing.
• Involvement: Participation in conventional activities.
• Beliefs: Adherence to pro-social values.

Disruption of these ties often stems from poor relationships with parents, school, peers, and social institutions.

Criminological Paradigms

Paradigms represent the responses provided by various scientific and social conflict theories.

Eysenck’s Criminal Personality Model

Eysenck identifies three pillars of criminal personality:

• Introversion/Extroversion: Extroverts have a high need for stimulation, are slow to internalize rules, and are more prone to antisocial behavior.
• Neuroticism: Characterized by emotional maladjustment and difficulty controlling the sympathetic nervous system.
• Psychoticism: Linked to high androgen levels, cruelty, and a search for intense emotions.

Offenders typically score high across all three pillars.

Sheldon’s Somatotypes

Sheldon categorized body types to explain behavior:

• Endomorph: Comfortable, slow, and affable.
• Mesomorph: Adventurous, energetic, and daring.
• Ectomorph: Lonely, introverted, and asocial.

Research suggests offenders are predominantly mesomorphs.

Sutherland: Differential Association

Sutherland argues that crime is not a result of lower-class unsuitability, but rather the product of training within a criminogenic environment. His core tenets include:

• Criminal behavior is learned through contact with others.
• Learning occurs within intimate groups.
• Motivation is transmitted by others who encourage criminal activity.