ENVIRONMENTAL THEORY

This theory brings criminology up to date because the traditional theories of crime and deviance such as functionalism, Marxism, strain theory, labelling and subcultural theories are seen to be out of date.

Shaw and McKay (Concentric Zone Model)

In Shaw and McKay’s study of the Burgess model also referred to as the concentric zone model, they found that amongst the poorest zones crime becomes culturally acceptable and this lifestyle would be passed one from generation to generation. The Burgess model reveals that there is social disorganisation in society due to zones being diverse in wealth and conformity to mainstream norms and values. (The transition zone is seen as where crime rates are most likely to be at their highest because there is social disorganization.)

(Morris’s study of Croydon- criticizes Shaw and McKay’s studies as they believed the circles didn’t fit British society and was more complex than what the model portrayed. It also argued that if any areas should be classified as socially disorganised they should be middle class residential areas as these people did not interact a great deal.)

Hobbs and Lister (Growth of Pubs/Clubs)

In their studies found that a huge growth in pubs/clubs gathered huge numbers of young people to come in search of pleasure. These pubs/clubs spread over cities and were largely focused in the CBD. Their studies reveal that ¾ of all violent incidents occur in urban areas between 9pm to 3am on the weekend. This is why Bouncers are like the alternate privatised police officers keeping social control for them.

Baldwin and Bottoms (Sheffield Estates)

In their study of 2 estates in Sheffield which were only separated by a dual carriage way, they found a major difference in crime rates. These were the Gardenia and Stonewall estates. The Gardenia Estate had a 300% higher number of offenders and 350% higher level of crime. The estate was seen to have tipped.

Wilson and Kelling (Broken Windows)

In their article showing some of the right realist views to crime and deviance, they argue that it is essential to maintain the orderly character of neighbourhoods in society to prevent crime. Any sign of deterioration such as graffiti, vandalism, litter or broken windows in buildings can indicate the location is prone to crime. Thus crime takes place as criminals are attracted to the location seeing it as a natural environment to perform deviant/criminal acts.