Description
This module introduces a range of theoretical approaches that explain crime, deviance and criminal behaviour. The particular focus is on the construction of the positive criminal.
Aims
The aim of this Module is to provide the student with : the ability to develop an understanding and enhance critical awareness of positivistic perspectives on crime and deviance.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module the student should be able to:
1. Discuss the contribution of criminological and sociological research to our understandings of crime and deviance.
2. Compare and contrast different theoretical explanations of crime, deviance and juvenile delinquency.
3. Critique the positivistic theories of the criminal.
Indicative Content
1 Classical Criminology
Crime as free will. Social Contact, Beccaria and Bentham.
2 Biological Positivism
Explores the work of Lombroso and the Italian School of Criminology and will explore the continued attraction of biological explanations of Criminality.
3 Anomie and Crime
Durkheim, Merton and Anomie.
4 Social Disorganisation theory
Chicago School, particularly the work of Clifford Shaw.
5 Differential Association and Differential Organisation
Sutherlands critique of Social Disorganisation
6 Juvenile Delinquency and Subcultural Explanations of Criminality
Examines both the American and British research on Subcultures and Crime.
7 Matza and the Critique of Positivism
Teaching and Learning Work Loads
| Teaching and Learning Method | Hours |
| Lecture | 20 |
| Tutorial/Seminar | 10 |
| Practical Activity | 0 |
| Assessment | 50 |
| Independent | 120 |
| Total | 200 |
Guidance notes
SCQF Level - The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.
Credit Value – The total value of SCQF credits for the module. 20 credits are the equivalent of 10 ECTS credits. A full-time student should normally register for 60 SCQF credits per semester.
Disclaimer
We make every effort to ensure that the information on our website is accurate but it is possible that some changes may occur prior to the academic year of entry. The modules listed in this catalogue are offered subject to availability during academic year 2021/22 , and may be subject to change for future years.
