Theorists who view crime as individual choice state that crime is more likely to occur when:
A) benefits lie in the future.
B) benefits for committing crime are greater than for not committing crime.
C) peers disapprove of the act.
D) punishment is immediate rather than uncertain in the future.
E) the individual has no other behavioral choice.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Theorists who view crime as individual choice argue that individuals weigh the benefits and costs of committing a crime. If the benefits of committing the crime (e.g. financial gain, status) are greater than the potential costs (e.g. legal punishment, social disapproval), the individual is more likely to choose to engage in criminal behavior. Therefore, according to this perspective, crime is more likely to occur when benefits for committing crime are greater than for not committing crime. Theorists who view crime as individual choice believe that individuals weigh the costs and benefits of committing a crime before deciding whether or not to engage in illegal behavior. Therefore, if the benefits of committing a crime (such as financial gain or social status) are greater than the benefits of not committing a crime, an individual is more likely to choose to engage in criminal behavior.

Theorists Who View Crime as Individual Choice State That Crime