Throughout our lives we are exposed to various explanations of the causes of criminal or deviant behaviour. In this short essay assignment (2-3 pages, double spaced), you will discuss your personal views on the causes of criminal/deviant behaviour and reflect on how these views were formed. Key considerations:
1. You may choose to focus on the causes of crime/deviance in general or a particular form of crime/deviance (e.g., substance abuse, theft, corporate crime, etc.). 2. You should select no more than two key social factors that have influenced your views on the causes of criminal/deviant behaviour. Relevant social factors include, but are not limited to, personal experience of criminal/deviant behaviour, media, politics, government, education, family background, religion, race, gender, sexuality. 3. You are not required to draw upon readings/outside material. However, if you do, you should reference all material appropriately. Grading:
INTRODUCTION (~.5 Page) UP TO 5 PTS In one coherent and concise paragraph you will: * Introduce your topic * “Hook” the reader in order to make them interested to continue reading * Provide a thesis statement BODY (~2-3 pages) Description of Views on Crime/Deviance UP TO 5 PTS You must clearly and concisely describe your views on the causes of crime/deviance. Graded on: * Strength of your description of your views. * Clarity and conciseness of writing. Social Factors UP TO 10 PTS You must clearly and concisely describe two social factors and how these social factors have influenced your views on the causes of crime/deviance. Graded on: * Strength of the description of the social factors. * Clarity/conciseness of writing. * Strength of explanation of how social factors influenced your views.
