Understanding the Structure of Inner Cities: Disorganization, Social Control, and Crime

Supporting Lectures:

Classical Criminology
Positive Criminology

The discussion assignment provides a forum for discussing relevant topics for this week on the basis of the course competencies covered.

This week, you reviewed several of the key theories related to the crime causation. Next week, the topics will turn to the structure of neighborhoods and cities. For this discussion, we will bridge these two topics.

What do the terms “disorganization” and “social control” mean, in the context of the structure of an inner city?
How do the issues of employment and income disparity impact the individuals or families living in your city or neighborhood? Provide examples to support your stand.
The debate between classical and positive theorists centers on the offender’s motivation for criminal behavior. Positivists believe the motivation for crime often arises in response to factors beyond the offender’s control. We often hear examples such as an unemployed person who turns to crime when there’s no other way to pay the rent. How often, though, is crime really about survival? Are people stealing in order to feed their kids, or is this a myth? Cite credible research in your response.
Considering the conclusions you reached in the previous point, discuss the policy implications of your conclusion.