Criminology

Study of crime, criminal behavior, and the criminal justice system.
What Is Crime?Theories of Criminal BehaviorThe Criminal Justice System
Types of Crime and CriminalsCrime Prevention and ControlJuvenile Justice
Investigating Crime ScenesCareers in CriminologyTechnology and Crime
Understanding Key ConceptsCritical Thinking with Case Studies
What Is Crime?Theories of Criminal...The Criminal Justice...Types of Crime and C...Crime Prevention and...Juvenile JusticeInvestigating Crime ...Careers in Criminolo...Technology and CrimeUnderstanding Key Co...Critical Thinking wi...
Basic Concepts

What Is Crime?

Defining Crime

Crime is an act or omission that violates a law and is punishable by a government. But what counts as a crime can change over time and across cultures!

Types of Crimes

  • Violent crimes include robbery, assault, and murder.
  • Property crimes like burglary or theft.
  • White-collar crimes such as fraud or embezzlement.
  • Victimless crimes like drug use or gambling in some places.

Why Do Definitions Change?

Laws reflect society’s values, which shift over time. For instance, alcohol was illegal during Prohibition in the U.S., but now it isn’t.

Impact on Society

Crimes affect victims, families, and entire communities. Understanding what is classified as a crime helps us see why certain acts are punished and others are not.

Fun Fact

Did you know jaywalking is a crime in many places, but not everywhere?

Examples

  • Shoplifting a candy bar from a store.

  • Hacking into someone’s email account without permission.

In a Nutshell

Crime is an act against the law, but what counts can change over time and place.

Key Terms

Crime
An act or omission that violates a law and is punishable by the government.
Felony
A serious crime, usually punishable by imprisonment for more than one year.
Misdemeanor
A less serious crime, typically punishable by a fine or short jail time.
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Theories of Criminal Behavior