Active learning ideas
This topic dives into the 'why' of criminal behavior, exploring major sociological theories. Students analyze Merton's Strain Theory, which suggests crime occurs when people cannot achieve societal goals through legitimate means. They also examine subcultural theories, looking at how peer groups can provide alternative status for those who fail in mainstream society.
Activity 01
Students are given a 'goal' (e.g., buying a luxury item) but different 'means' (e.g., varying amounts of play money or time). They must decide whether to follow the rules, give up, or 'innovate' (cheat) to reach the goal.
How does Merton's strain theory explain crime?
Activity 02
Students act out a scene where a teacher or police officer labels a young person based on their appearance. They then 'fast forward' to show how that label might affect the person's future choices and identity.
What role do delinquent subcultures play?
Activity 03
Groups research a specific subculture (e.g., a historical gang or a modern online group) and apply Cohen's 'status frustration' or Miller's 'focal concerns' to explain their behavior.
How does labelling lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Labelling theory says the label causes the crime.
Labelling theory says the label can lead to a 'criminal career' or 'secondary deviance,' but it doesn't necessarily cause the initial act. A flow-chart activity can help students see the steps between the first act, the label, and the self-fulfilling prophecy.
Strain theory only applies to poor people.
While Merton focused on the 'American Dream,' the concept of strain can apply to anyone who feels they cannot meet societal expectations. Discussing 'white-collar crime' helps students see how strain might affect high earners too.
Methods used in this brief
Social Construction of Crime
Students learn to distinguish between crime and deviance, understanding that these concepts are socially constructed and vary across time and cultures.
8 methodologies
Formal and Informal Social Control
This topic examines the mechanisms society uses to regulate behaviour. Students will compare the roles of agencies like the police and courts with family and peer groups.
8 methodologies
Patterns of Crime and Victimisation
Students will analyse official crime statistics, self-report studies, and victim surveys to identify patterns related to class, gender, and ethnicity.
8 methodologies