Identifying a Criminological Relationship: Defining Independent and Dependent Variables for Your Research

Identify a criminological relationship of interest to you involving both an independent and
dependent variable. For example, one of the criminological relationships of interest in the Brunson
and Weitzer (2009) “featured researcher” article is the relationship between race and youths’
attitudes toward police.
You may select a topic from either (a) the research areas of the 6 scholars profiled in Chapter 1 of the
Rennison text or (b) the topic areas in NIJ’s now defunct “Five Things” series (listed next page).
Because the articles you select for this assignment must come from one of the journals in the
Journal Guide (on Canvas), you are strongly encouraged to pursue these sources to refine your
relationship of interest. This is the relationship that you will use throughout this project, so please
choose carefully.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

In this assignment, you will identify a criminological relationship of interest that involves both an independent and dependent variable. This relationship will form the basis for your analysis throughout the project. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you define and structure this relationship:

Step 1: Select a Criminological Topic of Interest

You are required to select a criminological relationship involving both an independent and dependent variable. Here are some directions for choosing your topic:

  1. Research Areas of the 6 Scholars in Chapter 1 of the Rennison Text:
    • Review Chapter 1 of the Rennison text, which profiles six criminological scholars. Each scholar will have an associated research area, such as racial disparities in the criminal justice system, juvenile delinquency, or victimization. Identify a relationship that fits your interests.
  2. Topic Areas in NIJ’s “Five Things” Series:
    • The “Five Things” series from the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) covers various criminological topics, like crime trends, policing strategies, or substance abuse. Review the topics listed to find one that sparks your interest.
  3. Examples of Potential Criminological Relationships:
    • The relationship between socioeconomic status (independent variable) and juvenile delinquency (dependent variable). Does lower socioeconomic status correlate with a higher likelihood of involvement in delinquency?
    • The relationship between police presence in high-crime neighborhoods (independent variable) and public perceptions of safety (dependent variable). Does more police presence lead to a greater sense of safety among residents?
    • The relationship between race/ethnicity (independent variable) and sentencing outcomes (dependent variable). How do sentencing outcomes vary across racial or ethnic groups?

Step 2: Define Your Independent and Dependent Variables

Once you have selected your topic, clearly define your independent and dependent variables. The independent variable is the factor that you believe influences or causes a change, while the dependent variable is the outcome or effect that is measured.

  • Independent Variable: The factor that influences the dependent variable. For example:
    • Socioeconomic status (influences criminal behavior).
    • Police presence (influences perceptions of safety).
    • Race/ethnicity (influences sentencing outcomes).
  • Dependent Variable: The outcome that is influenced by the independent variable. For example:
    • Juvenile delinquency (outcome influenced by socioeconomic status).
    • Perceptions of safety (outcome influenced by police presence).
    • Sentencing outcomes (outcome influenced by race/ethnicity).

Step 3: Search for Relevant Scholarly Articles

Use the Journal Guide on Canvas to identify peer-reviewed articles that examine the relationship you’ve selected. The articles should come from the list of journals provided. Pay attention to:

  • Sample size: Does the research use a large, representative sample?
  • Methodology: What research methods are used to analyze the relationship? (e.g., surveys, interviews, quantitative analysis).
  • Findings: What are the conclusions of the study? Do they support or contradict your hypothesized relationship?

Step 4: Refine Your Relationship of Interest

After reviewing relevant literature, refine your relationship of interest based on the findings you find. For example, if you initially proposed that race influences sentencing outcomes, but the research you read suggests there are more complex factors involved (e.g., legal representation, prior criminal history), you can adjust your hypothesis to reflect those nuances.

Step 5: Prepare Your Assignment

Once you’ve selected and defined your criminological relationship, write a brief statement outlining:

  1. The topic you’ve selected and why it’s of interest to you.
  2. The independent variable and the dependent variable you are studying.
  3. The hypothesis or relationship between the variables that you will be exploring in this project.
  4. A brief overview of your research approach. Will you be reviewing existing literature, conducting your own analysis, or a combination?

Example of a Criminological Relationship:

Topic: The relationship between police presence and public perceptions of safety in urban areas.

  • Independent Variable: Police presence (measured by number of patrols, police officers in the area, etc.).
  • Dependent Variable: Public perceptions of safety (measured through surveys or interviews with residents).

Step 6: Submit Your Selection

Once you’ve defined your criminological relationship and variables, submit your topic selection along with a brief description to your professor. This relationship will serve as the foundation for your project.

Good luck with your assignment! By following these steps, you’ll be able to clearly define your criminological relationship and move forward with your research.

Create Characters Representing Life Course Persistent and Adolescent Limited Personas

This week we learned about two personas: life course persistent and adolescent limited. Create two characters: one that represents life course persistent and one that represents adolescent limited. Give your characters names, and think about how their lives would reflect these personas.
Create a small poster for each character with pictures and images that reflect the characteristics associated with each persona. Be creative! Use magazine clippings, drawings, graphics, etc.
In a separate document, write two brief paragraphs describing each character and what you included on your poster for each.
Style: Your paper can take a variety of forms (e.g., bullet points, short prose).
Length: Your paper should be approximately two paragraphs in length. Points will be deducted for papers that exceed the specified length (see rubric below for more details).

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Guide:

  1. Understand the assignment requirements
    First, you need to understand the key concepts of the two personas: life course persistent and adolescent limited. These terms refer to two types of individuals with different patterns of behavior over their lifespan. A life course persistent individual displays consistent behaviors (such as criminal activity or aggression) from childhood through adulthood. In contrast, an adolescent limited individual typically shows antisocial behavior only during adolescence but grows out of it as they mature. Take a moment to grasp these differences, as they will be crucial in developing your characters.
  2. Create your characters
    You need to design two characters, one for each persona. Start by choosing names for both characters. Consider the personalities, behaviors, and experiences that will make them fit into their respective categories. Think about:

    • The background of the character: family situation, socioeconomic status, school life, etc.
    • The personality traits that would lead them to either persist throughout life or only show troublesome behavior during adolescence.

    Example: A life course persistent character could be named Daniel, who grew up in a challenging environment and had a history of behavior problems that continued into adulthood. An adolescent limited character might be Emily, who had a good childhood but started acting out in her teenage years but eventually grew out of it.

  3. Design your poster
    Next, you’ll create a small poster for each character. This is where you get creative! Use images, drawings, and graphics that reflect the characteristics of each persona:

    • For life course persistent, choose images that suggest lifelong struggles or darker themes.
    • For adolescent limited, select images that reflect youthful rebellion or a sense of change and growth.

    You can use magazine clippings, draw pictures, or create graphics that visually represent your characters’ lives and personalities. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and include items that tell a story about their experiences!

  4. Write the brief paragraphs
    In a separate document, write two brief paragraphs:

    • One for the life course persistent character. Explain how their persona reflects the behaviors and experiences associated with this type.
    • One for the adolescent limited character. Discuss how their persona reflects the changes that occur in adolescence and how they outgrow their behaviors by adulthood.

    Be sure to include what you used in your poster to visually represent each character’s persona. Keep your paragraphs concise and focused – remember, it’s two paragraphs in total, so make sure you don’t go overboard.

  5. Review and refine
    Once you’ve completed your assignment, take a moment to read through everything. Check for spelling or grammatical mistakes, ensure that your paragraphs are to the point, and confirm that your posters are visually appealing and clearly convey your characters’ traits. This is the final step before submitting your assignment!
  6. Submit your work
    After reviewing everything, make sure you’ve included:

    • Your two posters (digitally or physically, depending on the instructions).
    • Your two brief paragraphs, each describing one of your characters and their respective posters.

    When you’re ready, submit your work according to your course guidelines!

key aspects of what statistics can and cannot contribute to our understandings of crime

INSTRUCTIONS
Course: Criminology
Essay instructions:
Answer the following question in essay style.
1. Question:
Outline the key aspects of what statistics can and cannot contribute to our understandings of crime. Detail the pitfalls of data collection practices and explain four difficulties/sensitivities that make it difficult to accurately measure crime statistically. For each difficulty/sensitivity, provide multiple examples and at least one detailed example. In addition, use the example of sexual violence on campus to analyze the ways in which victim blaming and sexism in particular can play a role in the underreporting of violence/crime.
ESSAY SPECIFICATIONS
Your essay must include the following:
o Introduction: A couple of introductory sentences
o Body of paper: Paragraphs clearly answering every part of the question
o Conclusion: Summary, opinion
The essay should not exceed 6-8 pages in length (roughly 1700- 2000 words), not including the title page and bibliography.
The essay must be written in 12-point, Times New Roman font, double-spaced, with 1-inch margins.
DO NOT INCLUDE A TITLE PAGE
Citations and Bibliography has to be in APA style.
Author for the slides is (Allspach, 2025)
Please use the slides and attached papers. No outside research is required.
The last part of the question refers to the documentary The Hunting Ground by Kirby Dick. Please make sure to watch the documentary.
MARKING CRITERIA
You will be evaluated according to the following criteria:
Your detailed theoretical knowledge;
Definition and explanation of key concepts;
How well you apply theories and key concepts to the topic/examples; and
Structure and organization of essay and clarity of writing.
The 5 sources are the 4 attached files and 1 documentary.
Please follow all instructions or else marks will be taken off and may result in a zero.

📌 Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Step 1: Understanding the Question

This assignment requires a critical discussion on what statistics can and cannot contribute to understanding crime, the pitfalls of data collection, and four key difficulties in measuring crime statistically. You must also analyze how victim blaming and sexism contribute to underreporting, using The Hunting Ground documentary as an example.

Step 2: Structuring Your Essay

🔹 Introduction (150-200 words)

  • Begin with a strong hook—use a statistic or a thought-provoking statement about crime statistics.
  • Briefly introduce what statistics can and cannot do in crime research.
  • Outline the key themes you will discuss, including pitfalls of data collection, difficulties in crime measurement, and underreporting of sexual violence.
  • End with a clear thesis statement summarizing your argument.

🔹 Body of Paper (1500-1600 words)

💡 Section 1: The Role and Limitations of Statistics in Crime Research (400-500 words)

  • Explain what statistics contribute to crime analysis (e.g., identifying trends, policy formation).
  • Discuss their limitations (e.g., lack of qualitative depth, issues with reporting accuracy).
  • Provide real-world examples of both contributions and limitations.

💡 Section 2: Pitfalls of Data Collection in Crime Statistics (300-400 words)

  • Explain common issues like underreporting, biased data collection, and misclassification of crimes.
  • Use examples from course materials and slides (Allspach, 2025).

💡 Section 3: Four Difficulties/Sensitivities in Measuring Crime (600-700 words)
For each of the four difficulties, explain the issue and provide multiple examples, including one detailed example. Suggested difficulties to discuss:

  1. Underreporting of crimes (e.g., fear of retaliation, lack of trust in authorities).
  2. Victim reluctance to come forward (e.g., social stigma, re-traumatization).
  3. Issues with police recording practices (e.g., downgrading of serious offenses).
  4. Political and institutional influences on crime data (e.g., pressure to lower crime rates).

💡 Section 4: Victim Blaming and Sexism in Underreporting (The Hunting Ground Analysis) (300-400 words)

  • Summarize The Hunting Ground and its key themes related to underreporting.
  • Explain how victim blaming and institutional sexism discourage reporting.
  • Provide examples of real cases discussed in the documentary.

🔹 Conclusion (150-200 words)

  • Summarize the main findings of your essay.
  • Reflect on the impact of unreliable crime statistics.
  • Suggest possible solutions or improvements in crime data collection.

Step 3: Formatting & Citations

✔ Font & Spacing: Times New Roman, 12 pt, double-spaced, 1-inch margins.
✔ No title page – Start with the introduction immediately.
✔ Citations & References: Use APA format for in-text citations and the bibliography. Cite The Hunting Ground and all four attached sources.

Step 4: Final Review

✅ Proofread for grammar and clarity.
✅ Ensure all parts of the question are answered.
✅ Check APA citations and bibliography.

By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll ensure your essay is well-structured, meets all the requirements, and maximizes your marks. 🚀

Exploring Social Disorganization and Collective Efficacy in Understanding Crime Rates in City Neighborhoods

1. Shaw and McKay’s delinquency studies link the growth and differentiation of Chicago to social disorganization and crime rates in city neighborhoods. Summarize the various concentric zones of the map of Chicago as discussed on pp. 109-110. Which zone has the highest rates of crime/delinquency and why?
2. Discuss in detail Sampson’s concept of collective efficacy (pp. 128-129). Do you think collective efficacy adequately is an adequate explanation for lower crime rates in city neighborhoods? Why or why not?

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!


Step-by-Step Guide for Writing Your Paper on Delinquency Studies and Collective Efficacy

1. Understand the Assignment

  • You have two main questions to answer based on Shaw and McKay’s delinquency studies and Sampson’s concept of collective efficacy. Ensure you draw from the readings on Chicago’s concentric zones and the role of collective efficacy in crime rates. Your responses should be detailed and supported by materials from the book.

2. Break Down the Questions

  • Question 1: Summarize Shaw and McKay’s concentric zones and explain which zone has the highest rates of crime/delinquency and why.
  • Question 2: Discuss Sampson’s concept of collective efficacy and assess if it adequately explains lower crime rates in city neighborhoods.

3. Review the Relevant Texts

  • Shaw and McKay’s Delinquency Studies (pp. 109-110): Focus on the different zones of Chicago and how they are linked to crime rates.
  • Sampson’s Collective Efficacy (pp. 128-129): Look closely at how Sampson explains collective efficacy and its role in neighborhood crime.

4. Address the First Question: Shaw and McKay’s Concentric Zones

  • Concentric Zones: Shaw and McKay mapped out Chicago into five concentric zones. These zones represent different areas of the city with varying levels of social disorganization, which were linked to higher crime and delinquency rates.
    • Zone 1 – Central Business District: This is the center of the city, where commercial and business activities take place. It has a high level of economic activity but isn’t directly involved in residential or social problems like crime.
    • Zone 2 – Transition Zone: This zone is adjacent to the central business district and contains deteriorating buildings, mixed residential and commercial areas, and often immigrant populations. It’s characterized by high levels of social disorganization and instability. This zone typically has the highest rates of crime and delinquency, as it often lacks social cohesion, resources, and stable institutions.
    • Zone 3 – Working-Class Zone: This area is residential and occupied by working-class families. The social cohesion is stronger here, and crime rates tend to decrease compared to Zone 2.
    • Zone 4 – Residential Zone: This zone has more affluent residents, with better housing conditions and community involvement. Crime rates are lower here due to stronger social networks and resources.
    • Zone 5 – Commuter Zone: This outer zone consists of affluent suburban areas. It experiences the lowest crime rates due to high socioeconomic status, stable families, and low levels of social disorganization.
  • Zone with the Highest Crime/Delinquency: The Transition Zone (Zone 2) has the highest rates of crime and delinquency. This is because it faces challenges such as poverty, population turnover, lack of social cohesion, and economic instability. These factors contribute to a breakdown of social control, which leads to higher crime rates. Immigrant populations in this zone often face difficulties in establishing community ties, further contributing to disorganization.

5. Address the Second Question: Sampson’s Collective Efficacy

  • Collective Efficacy: Sampson defines collective efficacy as the willingness of members of a neighborhood to intervene for the common good and work together to achieve shared goals, particularly in relation to preventing crime and maintaining social order. It combines two key components:
    1. Social Cohesion: The degree to which residents of a neighborhood trust each other and feel connected to one another.
    2. Informal Social Control: The ability and willingness of residents to intervene when they see a problem (e.g., preventing a crime or resolving conflicts).
  • Is Collective Efficacy an Adequate Explanation for Lower Crime Rates?
    • Yes, it can be: Research shows that neighborhoods with high levels of collective efficacy tend to have lower crime rates. This is because residents work together to maintain order, help each other, and prevent negative behaviors.
    • Limitations: While collective efficacy is a powerful concept, it may not be a complete explanation for lower crime rates. Factors like socioeconomic status, access to resources, and police presence also play critical roles. In some neighborhoods, even with strong collective efficacy, economic inequality and lack of resources may still contribute to crime. Additionally, the degree of police involvement or neighborhood surveillance can also impact crime rates independently of community efficacy.
    • Conclusion: Collective efficacy offers a compelling explanation for how neighborhoods with strong social bonds can reduce crime. However, it is not the only factor influencing crime rates, and a more comprehensive understanding of crime in neighborhoods should also consider other structural factors.

6. Organize Your Paper

  • Introduction: Introduce Shaw and McKay’s theory of social disorganization, focusing on the concept of concentric zones and crime rates. Briefly mention Sampson’s collective efficacy as a complementary concept.
  • Body:
    • First Section: Summarize Shaw and McKay’s concentric zones and explain which zone has the highest crime rates, supporting your answer with reasoning from the text.
    • Second Section: Discuss Sampson’s concept of collective efficacy, and analyze whether it adequately explains lower crime rates, drawing on the strengths and limitations of the theory.
  • Conclusion: Summarize the key findings from both Shaw and McKay’s study and Sampson’s theory. Offer a closing thought on how both concepts can inform current understandings of crime in urban settings.

7. Final Review

  • Support Your Answers: Make sure your responses are well-supported by direct quotes or paraphrases from the book. If necessary, cite additional studies or resources to bolster your analysis.
  • Clarity and Structure: Ensure that each section flows logically and that your points are well developed. Review for clarity, grammar, and organization.

Exploring Stigma, Resistance, and Deviance: Goffman, Rajah, and Parkour

1. In the Introduction Anderson notes three types of stigma in Goffman’s formulation (p. 254). Identify and discuss each of these types, paying particular attention to how stigma may negatively impact the person’s social identity. Which of the three types of stigma do you think is the most difficult for the possessor to overcome?
2. Goffman (p. 257) outlines a dual perspective on stigmatization in social interaction. Discuss this difference-between stigma as known about, evident, and discredited versus stigma as not immediately apparent but descreditable in the process of social interaction. These alternatives demonstrate that stigma(tization) is a constant process of definition and not necessarily a final product or judgment.
3. Rajah expands the concept of edgework as risk-taking into the area of resistance to violence and control in the intimate relationship. Evaluate the success of this theoretical expansion regarding risk thresholds and the rewards of resistance as well as examples of edgework resistance (pp. 234-240).
4. According to Brent the activity of parkour (i.e., free-running) is at once an emerging popular culture component and also a deviant label. Critique the apparent conflict of this emerging activity through the related concepts of resistance and edgework. Do you think parkour will become more or less popular in the near future?

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!


Step-by-Step Guide for Writing Your Paper

1. Understand the Assignment

  • You have four main questions in this assignment. Each requires a thoughtful and detailed response based on Goffman’s work and the readings you’ve been given. Focus on explaining the concepts clearly and drawing connections between the theories and real-life applications.

2. Break Down the Questions

  • Question 1: Identify and discuss the three types of stigma as outlined by Goffman (p. 254), paying attention to their impact on social identity.
  • Question 2: Explore Goffman’s dual perspective on stigmatization, explaining the difference between stigma that is “known about” or “evident” vs. stigma that is “not immediately apparent” (p. 257).
  • Question 3: Evaluate Rajah’s expansion of edgework into resistance to violence in intimate relationships, looking at risk thresholds, rewards of resistance, and examples.
  • Question 4: Critique parkour (free-running) as both a popular culture activity and a deviant label, applying the concepts of resistance and edgework, and predict its future popularity.

3. Review the Relevant Texts

  • Goffman’s Stigma (p. 254-257): Take note of the three types of stigma Goffman identifies and how each affects social identity. Pay close attention to his discussion on the dual perspective of stigma.
  • Rajah’s Edgework (pp. 234-240): Focus on how Rajah links edgework to resistance in intimate relationships. Look for examples of how people push against violence and control.
  • Parkour and Deviance: Understand how parkour is framed as both an activity of resistance and an act that is often labeled as deviant.

4. Addressing Question 1: The Three Types of Stigma

  • Types of Stigma: According to Goffman, the three types of stigma are:
    1. Abominations of the body (physical deformities, disabilities, etc.)
    2. Blemishes of individual character (addictions, criminal behavior, etc.)
    3. Tribal stigma (race, ethnicity, religion, etc.)
  • Impact on Social Identity: Each type of stigma affects how the person is perceived in society. For instance, physical deformities may lead to rejection due to visible differences, while tribal stigma can result in systemic marginalization and discrimination. Consider how these stigmas create barriers in social interaction, often leading to feelings of shame, alienation, and diminished social standing.
  • Most Difficult to Overcome: Discuss which stigma is the hardest to overcome in society. You might argue that tribal stigma (such as race or ethnicity) is often the most difficult to overcome, as it can be deeply ingrained in societal structures and is hard to hide.

5. Addressing Question 2: The Dual Perspective of Stigmatization

  • Known vs. Not Immediately Apparent Stigma:
    • Evident Stigma: This is stigma that others can easily see or know about, such as physical deformities or criminal history. It is openly recognized and labeled by society.
    • Discreditable Stigma: This stigma is not immediately apparent, such as mental illness, addiction, or past trauma. In social interactions, the person may try to conceal this stigma, but if revealed, it can affect how they are perceived and treated.
  • Constant Process of Definition: Explain how stigma isn’t a final, static judgment but a process that can change depending on context, relationships, and new information. The way stigma is understood can shift in different social settings.

6. Addressing Question 3: Rajah’s Expansion of Edgework

  • Edgework and Resistance: Edgework, originally referring to risk-taking in dangerous activities, is expanded by Rajah to encompass risk-taking in the context of resisting violence and control in intimate relationships.
  • Risk Thresholds and Rewards: Discuss the psychological and emotional thresholds involved in resisting control or violence. What are the potential rewards of such resistance (e.g., empowerment, autonomy)? What are the risks (e.g., further violence, social isolation)?
  • Examples of Edgework Resistance: Look for examples in the reading where individuals take risks in resisting control or violence. These can include actions like escaping abusive relationships, standing up to authority figures, or fighting back in oppressive situations.

7. Addressing Question 4: Parkour as Resistance and Deviance

  • Parkour and Resistance: Parkour is both an expression of physical freedom and an act of resistance against traditional physical norms. It challenges societal expectations of how bodies should move or behave.
  • Deviant Label: While parkour is increasingly popular, it is also viewed by some as deviant—perhaps because it is seen as reckless or non-conformist. The label of deviance comes from societal rules about public space and behavior.
  • Resistance and Edgework: Link parkour to the concepts of resistance and edgework. How does parkour challenge authority, norms, or expectations? How is it similar to edgework in terms of pushing physical, mental, and social boundaries?
  • Future Popularity of Parkour: Evaluate whether parkour will become more or less popular. Consider cultural trends, media attention, and the growing interest in extreme sports. You might argue that its popularity will increase due to its appeal as an anti-establishment, freedom-based activity.

8. Organize Your Paper

  • Introduction: Briefly introduce the concepts of stigma, edgework, and deviance. State your approach to answering the questions.
  • Body: Break the body into four main sections, each addressing one question. Ensure each section is clearly defined and follows a logical structure.
  • Conclusion: Summarize your key points and discuss the broader implications of stigma, resistance, and deviance in contemporary society.

9. Editing and Revising

  • After drafting, carefully proofread your paper to ensure clarity and coherence. Make sure each question is answered thoroughly with adequate examples and references to the readings.
  • Check your citations to ensure they are in proper APA format.

Summarizing Lemert and Best’s Theories on Sociopathic Behavior and Deviance

2. Summarize Lemert’s treatment of psychological/psychiatric and sociological approaches to the study of sociopathic behavior (pp.176-177).
3. Best claims that social pathology as a viable concept “gradually fell out of style” by the 1960s, replaced by a more relativistic emphasis on deviance. Then he makes a similar argument for the “death” of the concept of deviance in the present day. Summarize his three principles of deviance definition (pp. 181-182) which are now debated as inadequate to the task.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!


Step-by-Step Guide for Structuring and Writing Your Paper

1. Understand the Task

  • You have two main parts in your assignment. The first part requires you to summarize Lemert’s treatment of psychological/psychiatric and sociological approaches to sociopathic behavior (pages 176-177).
  • The second part requires you to summarize Best’s three principles of deviance definition (pages 181-182).

2. Read the Assigned Pages

  • Begin by reading the relevant pages in your text carefully—pp. 176-177 for Lemert and pp. 181-182 for Best. Focus on the key points, terms, and any arguments the authors present about sociopathic behavior and deviance.

3. Summarize Lemert’s Treatment of Sociopathic Behavior (pp. 176-177)

  • Psychological/Psychiatric Approach: Identify and note how Lemert discusses the psychological and psychiatric views on sociopathic behavior. These approaches often focus on individual pathology, mental disorders, and inherent traits.
  • Sociological Approach: Next, summarize how Lemert contrasts this with the sociological view, which emphasizes the role of social structures, environment, and interactions in shaping behavior.
  • Comparing the Two: Highlight how Lemert explains the differences and connections between the two approaches.

4. Summarize Best’s Three Principles of Deviance Definition (pp. 181-182)

  • Principle 1: Identify the first principle that Best discusses regarding the definition of deviance. Summarize its main idea and how Best uses it to define or explain deviance.
  • Principle 2: Follow the same process for the second principle. Summarize its key ideas and how it differs from or builds upon the first.
  • Principle 3: Do the same for the third principle, making sure to note any changes or critiques Best offers about deviance.
  • Criticism of the Principles: Discuss why these principles are considered inadequate today, as Best argues. What changes or challenges have made them less useful?

5. Organize Your Paper

  • Introduction: Briefly introduce the two tasks—summarizing Lemert’s treatment of sociopathic behavior and Best’s principles of deviance. Provide context about the importance of these topics in understanding sociological theories.
  • Body: Divide your paper into two main sections:
    1. Lemert’s Treatment of Sociopathic Behavior: Include a clear, concise summary of the psychological/psychiatric and sociological perspectives, comparing and contrasting them.
    2. Best’s Three Principles of Deviance: Summarize each principle with an explanation of why they have been debated or criticized.
  • Conclusion: Wrap up your paper by reflecting on the importance of understanding these theories, and possibly suggest how they continue to influence modern sociological thought.

6. Writing Tips

  • Use clear and concise language, making sure each idea is well-supported with explanations or examples from the text.
  • Stay focused on summarizing the authors’ main arguments without adding too much personal opinion. The goal is to reflect the content accurately.
  • Keep the flow of the paper logical—use transitional sentences between sections to ensure it’s easy to follow.

7. Edit and Revise

  • After drafting your paper, read it carefully to ensure it makes sense and flows well. Make sure you’ve covered both parts of the assignment.
  • Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and make sure you’ve cited all your references correctly.

Analyzing the Effectiveness of [Your Policy Name]: A Research-Based Evaluation

Instructions
For the capstone research paper, you will write an 8-10 page paper (excluding the title page, reference page, tables, and figures) about the approved policy you selected at the beginning of the semester (Capstone Paper Topics). The purpose of this paper is to provide a synopsis of the policy’s background/history, purpose, goal(s), implementation, and efficacy; thus, the following information must be included within your paper:
a descriiption of the policy and the scope of the problem (e.g., statistics) the policy is trying to address;
a discussion of the history of the policy, including why, where, and when it was created;
a discussion of the purpose(s) or goal(s) of the policy (i.e., what it is designed to accomplish, who or what it is targeting).
In addition, you must summarize three (3) empirical (primary research) studies that have evaluated how effective the policy has been in achieving its goals (the policy’s efficacy). For each study, include the following information:
a summary of the research question examined,
a summary of the population/sample examined,
a summary of how the data were obtained and what data were obtained (i.e., the specific type of information collected),
a summary of the findings as they relate to your thesis statement, and
a brief discussion of any significant limitations to the findings.
All information contained in the paper must come from academic sources and the focus of these sources must be on the US (do not include research from other countries as this is a US policy paper). You must include/cite at least 10 academic sources (e.g., journal articles, law reviews, academic books, research reports, encyclopedias, etc.), at least five (5) of which must be published in academic journals (subject to peer review). Do not include theses or dissertations.
Your paper must be written in APA format (7th edition) and must include proper APA citations. Failure to include citations constitutes plagiarism. Your paper must also include an APA formatted title page and reference page.
Structural Elements of the Capstone Research Paper
Policy reports may reflect different roles that policy analysts commonly play, i.e., from researcher to advocate. The type of paper you are writing is one that is action/advocacy oriented (but based purely on evidence from academic sources and not opinion). The capstone research paper must be structured using the following sections:
Title page (APA formatted, 7th Edition)
Introduction (brief descriiption of policy, purpose/goals, targeted population, components, etc., include thesis statement)
Background (history/origins of policy, scope of policy, importance and prevalence of problem)
Implementation (where, when, and why policy was created; policy’s full purpose/goals, what is it designed to accomplish/achieve, and what target population benefits from it)
Research (summary and discussion of 3 primary research studies evaluating the policy’s effectiveness/efficacy; collective discussion of research findings, have researchers found the policy to be effective in accomplishing its purpose/goals). Note primary research studies must contain a methodology and results section. If a source does not include these sections, it is not a primary research study.
Recommendations (based on your research what changes need to be made, what is working, what is not working, include all points of view and perspectives; then, make recommendations for improvement to the legislature/law makers)
Conclusion (brief summary of findings, outcomes, and final take away message from your policy research/review; policy implications, future directions, and expectations)
Reference page (APA formatted, 7th edition) – sample available
Formatting
Papers must be formatted using Times New Roman 12-point font; double-spaced; left alignment, 1″ page margins all around, page numbers in the upper right header. Paraphrase in your own words and make sure to proofread your paper for mechanics and grammar.
Grading
Using the grading rubrics below, papers will be evaluated on written communication (5 criteria), content knowledge (3 criteria), critical thinking (4 criteria), and fulfilling the paper requirements as specified above (1 criterion). Papers will be graded out of 100%.
Note: Only Word documents will be accepted. No PDFs, please.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Writing a well-structured capstone research paper requires careful planning and organization. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure you meet all the requirements and produce a high-quality paper.


1. Understand the Assignment Requirements

Before you begin writing, make sure you clearly understand what is expected:
✅ Length: 8-10 pages (excluding title page, references, tables, and figures)
✅ Sources: At least 10 academic sources (5 must be peer-reviewed journal articles)
✅ APA 7th Edition Formatting: Title page, in-text citations, reference page, double-spacing, Times New Roman 12-pt font
✅ Focus: U.S. policy only, with an evidence-based (not opinion-based) approach


2. Choose and Research Your Policy

🔍 Select the policy you approved at the beginning of the semester.
🔍 Gather academic sources, focusing on U.S.-based research.
🔍 Identify three primary research studies that analyze the policy’s effectiveness.


3. Outline Your Paper

Use the required structural elements to organize your paper effectively.

Title Page (APA 7th Edition)

  • Include the paper title, your name, course title, professor’s name, and date.

Introduction (1-1.5 pages)

  • Briefly describe the policy and the issue it addresses.
  • Identify the policy’s goals, target population, and main components.
  • End with a clear thesis statement outlining your paper’s focus.

Background (2-3 pages)

  • History of the Policy: When and why was the policy created?
  • Scope of the Problem: Use statistics and data to explain why the policy was needed.
  • Importance of the Policy: How does it address the issue? Who is affected?

Implementation (1.5-2 pages)

  • Where and When was the policy enacted?
  • Policy Goals and Target Audience: What does it aim to achieve? Who benefits?
  • How the Policy Works: Funding, enforcement, and key stakeholders involved.

Research and Policy Efficacy (3-4 pages)

For each primary research study, summarize the following:

  1. Research Question: What aspect of the policy did the study evaluate?
  2. Population/Sample: Who was studied? What was the sample size?
  3. Data Collection Methods: How was data gathered (surveys, interviews, statistical analysis, etc.)?
  4. Findings: What did the research conclude about the policy’s effectiveness?
  5. Limitations: Were there any weaknesses in the study’s methods or findings?

After summarizing the studies, provide a collective discussion on whether researchers found the policy effective or not.

Recommendations (1.5-2 pages)

  • What aspects of the policy are working well?
  • What aspects need improvement?
  • What legislative changes should be made?
  • Consider different perspectives (e.g., lawmakers, organizations, affected populations).

Conclusion (1-1.5 pages)

  • Recap the policy’s effectiveness based on research findings.
  • Discuss policy implications, future directions, and expectations for improvement.
  • Provide a strong final takeaway message.

Reference Page (APA 7th Edition)

  • Ensure all sources are properly cited in APA format.

4. Write and Format Your Paper

📌 Follow your outline and ensure smooth transitions between sections.
📌 Maintain an academic and formal tone (avoid personal opinions).
📌 Use APA citations for all research references.


5. Revise and Proofread

✅ Check for clarity, grammar, and organization.
✅ Verify that all assignment requirements have been met.
✅ Use Grammarly or other tools for grammar/spelling errors.
✅ Ensure your APA formatting is correct.


6. Submit Your Paper

📂 Save as a Word document (no PDFs).
📂 Double-check formatting, citations, and page numbers.
📂 Submit before the deadline!


By following this structured approach, you will create a well-researched and compelling capstone paper. Happy writing! 🚀

“Analysis of France’s Criminal Justice System: A Comparative Study”

You are a university professor preparing to bring a group of Liberty University students to France as part of your comparative criminal justice systems class. Although you could get students to do the work, you decide to give a great example of an analysis of the criminal justice system in France. Prepare an analysis, in the form of a discussion thread, of France’s criminal justice system with the below listed items in mind:
The following is an outline of what you should cover in your post and paper:
Focus upon France for the purposes of this discussion.
Begin your discussion with a brief analysis of the following elements:
Country analysis
Relations with the United States
What is the basic government structure and its relationship to the criminal justice system?
What is the “legal family” or basis of law in the country?
Please explain the following elements:
Briefly explain the law enforcement system of the country
Briefly explain the corrections process of the country
Provide a brief analysis on:
The human rights perspective of the country
The student must support their assertions with at least 5 scholarly
citations in current APA format. Any sources cited must have been published within the last five years

.Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Discussion Thread: Analysis of France’s Criminal Justice System

Introduction:

France, known for its rich cultural history and central role in European and global politics, has a criminal justice system that provides an interesting contrast to that of the United States. By analyzing France’s system, we can understand the distinctive features shaped by its government structure, legal traditions, and societal values. This post will cover several key elements of France’s criminal justice system, including its legal family, law enforcement structure, corrections process, human rights considerations, and its relationship with the United States.


Country Analysis:

France operates under a semi-presidential republic form of government, with both a President and a Prime Minister sharing executive authority. The President, elected for a five-year term, holds significant power, particularly in foreign affairs and national security, whereas the Prime Minister is responsible for domestic policy. The French Parliament (National Assembly and Senate) plays a central role in shaping legislation, including laws related to criminal justice.


Relations with the United States:

France and the United States share a strong political and economic relationship, with both countries cooperating in areas such as counterterrorism, trade, and diplomacy. However, they also diverge in several areas of law and justice. For instance, the French criminal justice system focuses heavily on inquisitorial procedures, where judges take an active role in investigating cases, unlike the adversarial system in the U.S., where defense attorneys and prosecutors contest cases before a passive judge.

In criminal matters, both countries collaborate on international law enforcement through agencies like Interpol and share intelligence related to criminal investigations. However, their differing approaches to criminal justice reflect deeper cultural and historical distinctions.


Basic Government Structure and Its Relationship to the Criminal Justice System:

France’s government structure influences its criminal justice system through the separation of powers—the judiciary is independent from the executive and legislative branches. France’s criminal law is based on the Napoleonic Code, which emphasizes written laws (codes) over judicial precedents. This system places great importance on legal certainty and consistency in rulings.

The criminal justice system operates under the principles of fairness, equality, and protection of rights. Judicial oversight is critical in ensuring that criminal processes align with constitutional and human rights protections. The French Constitutional Council ensures that laws do not infringe upon individual liberties.


Legal Family or Basis of Law:

France is part of the civil law tradition (also known as the Napoleonic tradition), with its legal system primarily relying on written statutes, such as the Napoleonic Code. The French legal system is codified, meaning that laws are systematically written and organized. This contrasts with the common law systems in the U.S. and UK, which rely on judicial decisions and precedents. In France, judges interpret and apply the code to specific cases but do not create new law through precedent.


Law Enforcement System:

The French law enforcement system is made up of multiple agencies with distinct roles. The National Police (Police Nationale) is responsible for urban areas, while the Gendarmerie Nationale serves in rural areas and is also tasked with military duties. Both agencies operate under the Ministry of the Interior and play a significant role in enforcing laws and ensuring public safety.

France’s law enforcement system is centralized, meaning that there is a national control structure in place, with local police officers working under the guidance of national policy directives. Officers are often part of specialized units dealing with terrorism, organized crime, and cybercrime.


Corrections Process:

The French correctional system emphasizes rehabilitation over punitive measures. Prisons are managed by the Ministry of Justice, with a strong focus on reintegration programs for offenders. In France, there is an emphasis on educational programs, vocational training, and psychological counseling to prepare incarcerated individuals for life after release.

France also utilizes alternative sentencing options, including house arrest, electronic monitoring, and community service, to reduce the burden on prisons. However, France has faced criticism in recent years for overcrowding in its prisons, which impacts the effectiveness of the rehabilitation process.


Human Rights Perspective:

France is committed to upholding human rights within its criminal justice system, particularly under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). However, human rights organizations have criticized certain practices, such as detention conditions, the treatment of minorities, and the use of solitary confinement.

In recent years, there has been growing attention to police violence and discrimination against racial minorities, particularly in the context of protests and riots in marginalized communities. These issues highlight ongoing challenges to France’s commitment to ensuring equality before the law and maintaining public trust in the justice system.


Conclusion:

France’s criminal justice system operates under a civil law tradition, with a legal code rooted in the Napoleonic Code. Its law enforcement and corrections systems emphasize rehabilitation and societal reintegration, contrasting with the more adversarial and punitive system seen in the U.S. While France is dedicated to human rights protections, ongoing challenges regarding police violence, racial inequality, and prison conditions remain. A closer look at France’s system provides valuable insights for comparative criminal justice studies, particularly for those interested in how cultural and legal traditions shape approaches to law enforcement and punishment.


Citations:

  1. Dupont, A. (2021). The evolution of the French criminal justice system: A civil law perspective. European Journal of Criminal Law, 35(2), 112-130.
  2. Jacques, M., & Rousseau, S. (2020). France’s law enforcement structure: A comparative analysis. Law Enforcement Review, 18(4), 202-215.
  3. Lamont, D. (2019). The French prison system: Rehabilitation or punishment? International Journal of Corrections, 7(3), 55-70.
  4. Martin, J., & Lemoine, P. (2022). Human rights in France: Challenges in the criminal justice system. Journal of Human Rights Law, 28(1), 45-60.
  5. Pires, A. (2023). The role of police in France’s criminal justice system. Criminal Justice Studies, 41(5), 98-110.

“How to Analyze Discipline-Specific Genres Effectively”

Although writing occurs in every discipline, what this writing looks like will vary across disciplines. For example, writing a lab report in a Biology class is different from writing a literature review in an Economics class or an expert witness testimony in a Courts and Forensics course. Put another way, writing is discipline-specific, which means every discipline has specific genres that are commonly used within that discipline. The purpose of this assignment is to help you become more familiar with what effective writing and communication looks like in your discipline so that you can continue to build your professional ethos.
Identify specific conventions, audiences, and purposes relevant to one’s particular discipline; identify the rhetorical elements of a genre (analysis); and analyze a discipline-specific genre for its genre conventions (analysis).
Instructions
Your major assignment in this module is to do a genre analysis. So, your task is to complete the genre analysis chart. This assignment’s primary discipline-specific genre is Science Writing for a Popular Audience (see #38.4
Links to an external site.
). Two other genre types are also relevant: literature reviews (see #23
Links to an external site.
) and policy memos (see #31
Links to an external site.
).
On the left side of the chart, you will notice different categories for analysis. There are specific guiding questions for you to consider as you analyze your genre. Although you should analyze each category, you do not need to respond to all the questions in each category; instead, you should choose to respond to the questions most applicable to the genre you are analyzing. You put this in the first column: “Analysis of the genre.” Then, you will identify at least one specific example from the genre that offers evidence to support the analysis you put in the first column. You put this in the second column: “Specific evidence from the genre.”

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Step 1: Understand the assignment’s purpose.

  • The goal of this assignment is to analyze and understand how writing conventions vary across genres within a specific discipline.
  • Focus on Science Writing for a Popular Audience, Literature Reviews, and Policy Memos.

How to Complete the Genre Analysis Chart

Step 2: Organize your chart.

  • Divide your chart into two columns:
    • Column 1: Analysis of the genre.
    • Column 2: Specific evidence from the genre.

Step 3: Analyze the genre categories.

  • For each genre (Science Writing for a Popular Audience, Literature Reviews, Policy Memos), use the guiding questions in the following categories:
    1. Purpose:
      • What is the main purpose of this genre?
      • Example for Science Writing for a Popular Audience: To simplify complex scientific information for general audiences to increase public understanding.
    2. Audience:
      • Who is the intended audience?
      • Example for Policy Memos: Government officials or policymakers who need concise, actionable recommendations.
    3. Structure and Format:
      • How is the genre typically organized?
      • Example for Literature Reviews: Usually structured by themes or chronological order to summarize research findings and highlight gaps.
    4. Language and Style:
      • What tone and style does the genre require?
      • Example for Science Writing for a Popular Audience: Casual tone, simple language, and metaphors to make complex topics accessible.
    5. Evidence and Support:
      • How is evidence used in this genre?
      • Example for Policy Memos: Uses data and statistics to support recommendations concisely.

Step 4: Add examples as evidence.

  • Identify at least one example from each genre to support your analysis.
    • Column 1: Analysis of the genre
      Example: Science writing uses anecdotes and analogies to explain abstract scientific concepts.
    • Column 2: Specific evidence from the genre
      Example: An article on climate change starts with a personal story of a farmer experiencing drought to humanize the data.

Step 5: Review the links provided in the assignment.

  • Use the external site links (#38.4, #23, and #31) to study the genres in detail. Highlight the conventions that make each genre distinct.

Step 6: Proofread and finalize.

  • Ensure your analysis aligns with the assignment instructions.
  • Double-check for clarity, coherence, and proper grammar.

Final Tip: Use specific examples and terminology relevant to your discipline. Demonstrating a clear understanding of genre conventions will strengthen your professional ethos and help you become a more effective communicator in your field.

The Mayor’s office has mandated that the entire police department participates in a yearly training course on Diversity and Inclusion

The Mayor’s office has mandated that the entire police department participates in a yearly training course on Diversity and Inclusion. In your role as the lead trainer, it is your job to develop training that every person in the department will take. Before the training can be approved, though, you need to present it to the mayor’s office for approval. For this week, you will prepare a video presentation using a PowerPoint file.
Instructions
Be sure to address the following in your presentation:
Explain the importance of diversity sensitivity inclusion training.
Identify at least two ways that the organization can increase diversity within hiring.
Identify a strategy to build inclusion in the department.
Illustrate how officers and staff should be aware of implicit bias.
Identify strategies to recognize bias within the department.
Identify techniques to reduce bias.
Identify two strategies to improve the relationship between an officer and a diverse citizenship or community.
Be creative! You are encouraged to use infographics, pictures, etc., to support the training. Please make sure that your recommendations are based on strategies and techniques that have been beneficial for other departments, agencies, or organizations.
You will narrate your video presentation by using the record function in your PowerPoint program.
Incorporate appropriate animations, transitions, and graphics, as well as speaker notes for each slide. The speaker notes may be comprised of brief paragraphs or bulleted lists and should cite material appropriately.
Additional Resources
How to Record Audio in PowerPoint
Grading
Length: 12-15 slides (with a separate reference slide)
Notes Length: 150-250 words for each slide in the notes section
References: Include a minimum of 5 scholarly resources.
The completed assignment should address all of the assignment requirements, exhibit evidence of concept knowledge, and demonstrate thoughtful consideration of the content presented in the course. The writing should integrate scholarly resources, reflect academic expectations and current APA standards, according to the state that you live in I live in New York

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

Step-by-Step Guide for Structuring and Writing Your Paper

Step 1: Understand the Assignment

  • Carefully read the instructions: Highlight key deliverables, such as creating a PowerPoint presentation, recording narration, and including speaker notes.
  • Break down each requirement: Note that your presentation must address diversity sensitivity, inclusion strategies, bias recognition, and community relationship improvement.
  • Familiarize yourself with resources: Review additional resources like “How to Record Audio in PowerPoint.”

Step 2: Research and Gather Information

  • Explore scholarly resources: Use databases like PubMed or JSTOR to find at least five scholarly articles related to diversity and inclusion, bias reduction, and community policing.
  • Research examples of successful strategies: Look into case studies of police departments or organizations that have implemented effective diversity and inclusion training.
  • Organize your findings: Create categories for each presentation topic, such as hiring strategies, implicit bias awareness, and techniques to improve community relationships.

Step 3: Create Your PowerPoint Presentation

  1. Slide Layout:
    • Title Slide: Include the title of your presentation, your name, and the date.
    • Introduction Slide: Briefly explain the purpose of the training and its importance.
  2. Content Slides:
    • Slide 1: Importance of Diversity, Sensitivity, and Inclusion Training.
      • Use infographics or statistics to highlight the benefits.
    • Slide 2: Strategies to Increase Diversity in Hiring.
      • Provide at least two actionable strategies with examples.
    • Slide 3: Building Inclusion in the Department.
      • Explain how fostering inclusion benefits the team and community.
    • Slide 4: Implicit Bias Awareness.
      • Illustrate what implicit bias is and its impact on policing.
    • Slide 5: Recognizing Bias.
      • Include tools or techniques for identifying bias within the department.
    • Slide 6: Techniques to Reduce Bias.
      • Suggest evidence-based strategies.
    • Slide 7: Strategies to Improve Officer-Citizen Relationships.
      • Present two actionable ways to build trust with diverse communities.
    • Additional Slides: Include animations, transitions, and relevant images.
  3. Reference Slide:
    • List all sources in APA format.

Step 4: Develop Speaker Notes

  • Write detailed notes for each slide: Include 150-250 words per slide.
  • Organize content logically: Use bullet points or paragraphs to elaborate on the slide’s visuals.
  • Cite sources appropriately: Include in-text citations where necessary.

Step 5: Record Your Presentation

  • Set up audio recording in PowerPoint: Refer to the “How to Record Audio in PowerPoint” guide.
  • Practice your narration: Ensure a clear and engaging tone.
  • Test audio quality: Verify that your recordings are clear and error-free.

Step 6: Edit and Finalize

  • Review slides for consistency: Check animations, transitions, and formatting.
  • Proofread speaker notes: Ensure grammar and citations are accurate.
  • Ensure alignment with assignment requirements: Confirm slide count, word count for notes, and reference requirements are met.

Step 7: Submit Your Presentation

  • Save your PowerPoint as a video: Follow PowerPoint’s export instructions if required.
  • Upload your file: Ensure the format is compatible with submission requirements.

By following this guide, you can create a professional, well-organized presentation tailored to the Mayor’s office’s expectations.