Patterns of Criminal and Deviant Behaviour

Understanding Patterns of Crime and Deviance

Patterns of Crime and Deviance refer to observable trends and variations in criminal and deviant behaviour across different groups, locations, and periods of time.
These patterns can be useful in understanding which groups are more likely to commit certain types of crime or deviance and in determining the factors influencing such behaviour.

Patterns by Demographics

Research indicates different demographic groups demonstrate distinct patterns of offending.
Age: Younger individuals (15-24) often display higher rates of criminal activity. This may be due to factors such as peer pressure, lack of maturity or financial stability.
Gender: Males are statistically more likely to engage in criminal behaviour than females. The reasons for this are complex and debated, including socialisation processes and the construction of masculinity.
Ethnicity: The representation of different ethnic groups in crime statistics varies. However, it’s essential to account for potential biases in the criminal justice system alongside factors such as social and economic inequality.

Patterns by Socioeconomic Status and Location

Socioeconomic status and area where a person resides also play a substantial role in crime patterns.
Individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds report higher levels of crime participation, potentially due to factors like financial strain, limited access to quality education, or exclusion from legitimate opportunities.
In terms of geography, urban regions generally display higher crime rates than rural areas. This could be attributed to population density, anonymity, or concentrated poverty.

Patterns Over Time

Patterns of crime can also be analysed over different periods of time.
For example, certain types of crime could rise during times of economic recession due to rising unemployment and financial pressures.
Alternatively, advancements in technology can lead to new forms of crime, such as cybercrime, becoming more common.

Patterns of Crime Types

Different types of crime show distinct patterns.
Violent and physical crimes are more often committed by young males, whereas females are more likely to commit property crimes.
White-collar crimes, such as embezzlement or fraud, are more likely to be perpetrated by individuals with higher socioeconomic status.

Patterns and Definitions of Deviance

Patterns of deviant behaviour depend on societal definitions of deviance, which may vary over time and across cultures.
Deviant behaviour often mirrors patterns in criminal behaviour, with young males frequently showing higher rates of deviance.
Deviant acts can be socially sanctioned in various ways, which can impact the labelling and perception of the individual as a deviant.