The Impact of Social Intervention on Individuals

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The Impact of Social Intervention on Individuals

When attempting to explain the question of what is crime? Two

predominate theories emerge, that of a structural explanation and that

of an agency. These theories form one of the fundamental debates in

Social Science and each offers its own perspective on how free

individuals are to act as they chose with out social intervention. As

such in this essay I intend to illustrate the key points of each

explanation and in turn highlight key methods of evidence used to

support them.

Those who would describe crime with the foundation on social

structures, focus on the collective influences, which drive

individuals to behave or conform in certain manners. These structures

can vary from an individual’s family background and genetics to their

cultural surroundings and beliefs. Even with in this one branch of

explanation there may be several contrasting opinions. However,

essentially they all believe that “it is possible to identify

structures, constraining and determining forces which are beyond the

control of individuals or groups, and that these structures dispose us

to behave in certain ways.” (Introductory Chapter, 2004, p28). This

explanation can then be used to explain crime with the notion that

people can be influenced into crime by structures, which exist around

them. For example one structure, which could be considered to pressure

people into crime, is the family structure.

Social Psychologist David Farrington has conducted in-depth research

into the way that “pathological or problem families can transmit

criminal carers within them.” (Farrington, D, 1994, p31). His claims

put focus on the concept that families are able to pass criminal

careers through generations and that children can from an early age

display behaviour, which can predict a future criminal lifestyle.

Before these claims can be considered a reasonable explanation there

must be supporting fact and evidence to maintain them. With out the

claims could be thought of as speculation and could be considered less

reliable.

Evidence can be produced from a many different research methods.

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