An Introduction to Criminological Theory

This expanded new edition of best-selling textbook provides a comprehensive and up-to-date introduction to criminological theory for students taking courses in criminology at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. The text is divided into four parts, with the first three addressing ideal type models of criminal behavior—the rational actor, predestined actor, and victimized actor models. Within these, the various criminological theories are located chronologically in the context of one of these different traditions, and the strengths and weaknesses of each theory and model are clearly identified. The fourth part of the book looks more closely at more recent attempts to integrate theoretical elements from both within and across models of criminal behavior. This interdisciplinary text recognizes the value of legal, biological, psychological and sociological explanations of crime and criminal behavior. It includes a new chapter on positivist approaches to female criminality, and also explores the issue of hate crimes.