Theories of Criminal Behavior

Description: This quiz will test your knowledge of various theories of criminal behavior. Each question will present a statement or scenario related to a specific theory, and you will need to select the correct answer from the given options.
Number of Questions: 15
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Tags: criminology criminal behavior theories of crime
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Which theory suggests that criminal behavior is primarily caused by biological factors, such as genetics and brain abnormalities?

  1. Biological Theory

  2. Psychological Theory

  3. Sociological Theory

  4. Environmental Theory


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Biological Theory of criminal behavior posits that certain biological factors, such as genetics and brain abnormalities, can predispose individuals to engage in criminal behavior.

According to the Social Learning Theory, criminal behavior is primarily learned through:

  1. Observing and imitating others

  2. Genetic inheritance

  3. Environmental factors

  4. Mental illness


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Social Learning Theory suggests that individuals learn criminal behavior by observing and imitating the actions of others, particularly those they perceive as role models.

The Rational Choice Theory views criminal behavior as a result of:

  1. Impulsive decision-making

  2. Biological factors

  3. Social and economic conditions

  4. Rational calculation of costs and benefits


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Rational Choice Theory proposes that individuals engage in criminal behavior after carefully weighing the potential benefits and costs associated with their actions.

Which theory suggests that criminal behavior is primarily caused by social and economic inequalities?

  1. Strain Theory

  2. Biological Theory

  3. Psychological Theory

  4. Environmental Theory


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Strain Theory posits that criminal behavior arises from the strain experienced by individuals who are unable to achieve their goals through legitimate means due to social and economic inequalities.

The Labeling Theory suggests that criminal behavior is a result of:

  1. Negative labeling and stigmatization

  2. Biological factors

  3. Social and economic conditions

  4. Mental illness


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Labeling Theory proposes that individuals who are labeled as criminals by society are more likely to engage in further criminal behavior due to the negative consequences and stigma associated with their label.

According to the Differential Association Theory, criminal behavior is learned through:

  1. Observing and imitating others

  2. Genetic inheritance

  3. Environmental factors

  4. Mental illness


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Differential Association Theory suggests that individuals learn criminal behavior through their interactions with others, particularly those who are involved in criminal activities.

The Routine Activities Theory suggests that criminal behavior is more likely to occur when:

  1. There is a suitable target

  2. There is a motivated offender

  3. There is an absence of capable guardians

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Routine Activities Theory proposes that criminal behavior is more likely to occur when there is a suitable target, a motivated offender, and an absence of capable guardians.

Which theory suggests that criminal behavior is primarily caused by mental illness?

  1. Biological Theory

  2. Psychological Theory

  3. Sociological Theory

  4. Environmental Theory


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The Psychological Theory of criminal behavior posits that certain psychological factors, such as mental illness, personality disorders, and cognitive deficits, can contribute to criminal behavior.

The Broken Windows Theory suggests that:

  1. Minor crimes lead to more serious crimes

  2. Social disorder encourages criminal behavior

  3. Police presence deters crime

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Broken Windows Theory proposes that minor crimes, such as vandalism and public disorder, can lead to more serious crimes, as they create an environment that is conducive to criminal behavior.

Which theory suggests that criminal behavior is primarily caused by environmental factors, such as poverty, lack of education, and poor housing?

  1. Biological Theory

  2. Psychological Theory

  3. Sociological Theory

  4. Environmental Theory


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Environmental Theory of criminal behavior posits that certain environmental factors, such as poverty, lack of education, and poor housing, can contribute to criminal behavior.

The General Theory of Crime suggests that criminal behavior is primarily caused by:

  1. Low self-control

  2. Biological factors

  3. Social and economic conditions

  4. Mental illness


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The General Theory of Crime proposes that criminal behavior is primarily caused by low self-control, which is a personality trait characterized by impulsivity, lack of planning, and difficulty in delaying gratification.

Which theory suggests that criminal behavior is primarily caused by social disorganization and a lack of social control?

  1. Biological Theory

  2. Psychological Theory

  3. Sociological Theory

  4. Environmental Theory


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The Sociological Theory of criminal behavior posits that certain social factors, such as social disorganization and a lack of social control, can contribute to criminal behavior.

The Conflict Theory suggests that criminal behavior is a result of:

  1. Class conflict and social inequality

  2. Biological factors

  3. Social and economic conditions

  4. Mental illness


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Conflict Theory posits that criminal behavior is a result of class conflict and social inequality, as individuals from marginalized groups may engage in criminal behavior as a form of resistance or rebellion against the dominant social order.

Which theory suggests that criminal behavior is primarily caused by a lack of opportunities for legitimate success?

  1. Biological Theory

  2. Psychological Theory

  3. Sociological Theory

  4. Environmental Theory


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The Opportunity Theory of criminal behavior posits that criminal behavior is more likely to occur when individuals lack opportunities for legitimate success, such as employment, education, and social support.

The Subcultural Theory suggests that criminal behavior is a result of:

  1. Adherence to deviant norms and values

  2. Biological factors

  3. Social and economic conditions

  4. Mental illness


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Subcultural Theory posits that criminal behavior is a result of adherence to deviant norms and values within certain subcultures, such as gangs or delinquent groups.

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