Crime rates are higher in poor neighbourhoods. To a sociologist, why might this occur?
A) Because people in poor neighbourhoods commit more crime
B) Because people in poor neighbourhoods are natural-born criminals
C) Because people in poor neighbourhoods are more likely to get caught
D) Because everyone in poor neighbourhoods commits a crime at some point

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sociologists might argue that people in poor neighborhoods are more likely to get caught due to increased surveillance and policing in these areas, as well as systemic biases in the criminal justice system. This doesn't necessarily mean they commit more crimes, but rather that their crimes are more likely to be recorded.

Crime Rates Are Higher in Poor Neighbourhoods