These are the theory we used so far. General Strain Theory Subcultural Theory Subcultural Theory : code of the street Social Control Theory Neutralization Theory Routine Activities Theory Biological Theories of Crime. General Strain Theory. Do not use Bandura’s social learning theory,
Theory Paper Assignment
A goal of this course is to connect theory to the real world. None of the theories we have learned about occur in a vacuum, and it is important to understand the policy implications that result from taking a theory and applying it to the real world.
You will choose a theory we have covered (or will cover) and describe the theory in detail. You will then explain some specific policy implications from the theory. Finally, you will find a news article that you feel shows an example of your chosen theory being applied.
The use of any generative AI is considered cheating WITH NO EXCEPTIONS. All papers will be processed by Turnitin upon submission and plagiarism and AI scores will be checked. If your paper is flagged as AI generated you will receive a zero and will be reported for violating the Academic Honesty policy. If you have any questions or concerns about whether a tool you use is considered AI, it is your responsibility to check with me before submission.
Example
The following is a bare bones example of what kind of information would be included in a successful paper. Clearly much more detail is needed, but the main points to be included are below.
YOU MAY NOT USE THIS EXAMPLE FOR YOUR PAPER
Theory Summary
Differential association argues that if an individual associates with more law-breaking individuals than law abiding individuals, they are likely to break laws themselves.
Policy Implications
Crime control policy implications for differential association theory would include providing law-abiding role models for particularly vulnerable kids.
News article
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri needs volunteers due to a growing list of youths wanting to be “littles” but not enough bigs. The article notes that “Research shows similar programs work to better the community as a whole. Studies find kids with mentors are less likely to use illegal drugs, less likely to skip school, and less likely to get in a physical fight”
Explaining how the article applies to the theory
Big brothers or sisters represent “definitions for law abiding” which can lead to youths staying away from crime. Providing these positive role models can have a lasting impact on keeping youths from becoming involved with crime.
Requirements
Your paper must be in Times New Roman, 12 point font, double spaced with 1” margins.
It is due at midnight on Sunday 4/24, and will be submitted under the assignments tab on iCollege
There is no minimum page length, but a successful paper likely falls somewhere in the 3-5 page range.
Rubric
The Theory/Summary
Theory is fully explained, all relevant details are included
Theory is mostly explained, most relevant details are included
Theory is poorly explained, some relevant details are missing
Theory is not explained
______/5
Policy Implications
Policy implications are fully addressed
Policy implications are mostly addressed
Policy implications are mostly unaddressed
Policy implications are not addressed
______/5
News Article and Analysis
News article is relevant, analysis is thorough
News article is relevant, analysis is average
News article is not relevant, analysis is poor
News article is not included
______/5
Spelling/Grammar
Grammar is correct, no misspelled words
Grammar is mostly correct, few misspelled words
Grammar is correct, some misspelled words
Grammar is poor, many misspelled words
______/5
Total Grade: ____/20
