CS 102

Theories of Crime Causation

Rational Choice Perspective

1. Discuss and explain the difference between the following theories from each other:

 Rational choice theory vs. routine activity theory.

o Rational choice theory means people freely choose their behavior and are
motivated by the avoidance of pain and the pursuit of pleasure and
happiness. While routine activity is a subsidiary of rational choice theory
requires three elements be present for a crime to occur: a motivated offender
with criminal intentions and the ability to act on these inclinations, a suitable
victim or target, and the absence of a capable guardian who can prevent the
crime from happening.

 Broken windows theory vs. situational crime prevention theory.

o Broken window theory if one broken window is left unattended, then it will
invite more broken window means when not corrected, it will lead to more
serious crimes. While situational crime prevention focuses on more immediate
opportunities for offending.

2. What is a similarity between the routine activities theory and the rational perspective
in crime?

 Rational choice and routine activities theory both hold that crime rates are a
product of criminal opportunity.