Teaching Responsibility

LJMU Schools involved in Delivery:

Justice Studies

Learning Methods

Online

Module Offerings

5002COMJUS-MAY_NS-MTP
5002COMJUS-NOV_NS-MTP

Aims

The module aims to introduce learners to a range of criminological theories that seek to explain crime and criminal behaviour and how they apply to contemporary criminal justice policy and practice. 

Module Content

Outline Syllabus:
Introduction to the module - thinking about criminological theory - Classical Criminological Theory -  Positivist Theory (biological/ psychological/ sociological) - Control and Strain Theory - Labelling and Radical Theory -  Mid way review - Cultural Theory - Feminist and Gender Theory - Realist and Zemiologist Theory -  Recap and Review - Drop in to support assessment and submission
Module Overview:
Initially this module explores the foundations of criminological theory pertaining to the commission of crime and criminal behaviour. Commencing with definitions of crime and criminal behaviour, concepts around free will, the social contract and broader classical criminological thought will be explored. Equally, early positivist theory associated with biological, psychological, and sociological determinism will be critically considered. Broader sociological / criminological concepts exploring control and strain theories will be integrated into the module, culminating in the application of such criminological knowledge to criminal justice practice.

Beyond this, critical criminological explanations around criminal behaviour will be undertaken, exploring labelling and radical theories, gender and theories of masculinity, realist criminology as well as race, ethnicity and social exclusion, amongst others. This modern theoretical focus represents further critical appraisal around crime and criminal behaviour, offering a contemporary understanding of criminal justice practice and effective intervention.

Assessments

Practice