Author Question: Discuss the difference between a hypothesis and a theory in the context of criminology. Why is the ... (Read 86 times)

serike · **on:** Aug 17, 2018

Discuss the difference between a hypothesis and a theory in the context of criminology. Why is the scientific method an important part of criminology? o A hypothesis is a possible explanation for an observed occurrence that can be

What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Discuss how race, ethnicity, and poverty are related to crime. Young black males are disproportionately represented among homicide

What will be an ideal response?

makaylafy · **Reply #1 on:** Aug 17, 2018

Answer to Question 1

tested by further investigation.
o A theory is an explanation of a happening or circumstance that is based on observation, experimentation, and reasoning.
o If criminologists find a hypothesis to be valid, it may be accepted as a theory. This process is known as the scientific method.
o Scientific method allows criminologists to systematically and scientifically explore the validity of their various explanations for criminal offending.

Answer to Question 2

o offenders and victims.
Official crime data indicates a strong correlation between minority status and
o crime.

o Race is a controversial area in criminal justice.
Race may not be as strong a predictor of criminal behavior as neighborhood and
o family conditions.
o Income level is more important than race when it comes to crime trend.
o Lack of education also seems to correlate with criminal behavior.
o It is important to note however, that poverty does not cause crime.
Most crime research seems to focus on white or blacks and not ethnic or
o cultural background.
This will change in the future as the Hispanic population will account for one-
o third of the U.S. population by 2050.