For courses in criminological theory (undergraduate and graduate) and Introduction to Criminology.
Criminological Theory: A Brief Introduction, provides students and instructors with a concise, up-to-date, and thorough discussion and explication of major criminological schools of thought. The text focuses on providing students with understandings of not only what the central tenets are of criminological theories but also focuses on providing real-life examples and implications for criminal justice policy and practice. The various theories examined across the chapters are illustrated through examples drawing upon contemporary cultural developments of particular interest to college age students that increase interest and engagement.
Expanded coverage of theory development, assessment, and integration:
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Engaging criminology from a strong social science orientation—gives distinct theoretical preferences and insights that will motivate students to carefully consider the range of alternative explanations offered for the same crime realities and outcomes
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Demonstrates the applicability of criminological theory to everyday life—offers real-world, contemporary illustrations and examples, as well as hypothetical scenarios relevant to society, generally, and college life, specifically, so that the chapters are interesting and relevant to young adults
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Focus on theory assessment, development and integration—helps students gain understanding of how theory is developed and refined
Theories grouped by type and subtype:
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EXPANDED! More thorough coverage of biological and biosocial theories—features the most up-to-date knowledge in this quickly growing area of theoretical criminology
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EXPANDED! Coverage of alternative and leftist theories—keeps students up-to-date with the latest information
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EXPANDED! Coverage of social support theory and expanded discussion of immigration—familiarises students with new emerging topics in criminological theory
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EXPANDED! Relevance of criminological theory for shaping criminal justice practices and crime control policy—illustrates the pragmatic value of theory
Strong Pedagogical Support:
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Proven pedagogical tools to promote effective learning—including chapter summaries, key terms, discussion questions, and references to provide students with a thorough review of the concepts
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Case studies from the news capture students’ attention at the beginning of each chapter—illustrates the theories being described in the chapter