Synopsis
In the fifth edition of Criminological Theories: Introduction, Evaluation, and Application, Ronald L. Akers and Christine S. Sellers provide a concise but thorough review and appraisal of the leading theories of crime and criminal justice. Based on the widespread success of the first four editions, this landmark book keeps current with changes in the development, testing, integration, and application of important criminological theories. Each chapter has been updated and substantially revised in light of recent research and important changes in the theories. More extensive revision and updating have been done on psychological, social learning, social bonding and self-control, labeling, anomie and strain, and feminist theories. The last chapter is devoted to the topic of theoretical rivalry and integration, and it too has been substantially revised, including the addition of a table that provides an overview of all of the major theories of criminal and deviant behaviour. In clear, engaging language, authors Ronald L. Akers and Christine S. Sellers explore each principal criminological theory through the following in-depth analysis: * Introduction: Presents a succinct exposition of the theory's central concepts, assertions, and hypotheses--including recent modifications and revisions * Evaluation: Provides a detailed critique of the theory, with a focus on empirical validity * Application: Extends the evaluation to determine each theory's relevance, as well as its potential for controlling and preventing crime and delinquency To draw students into the material, the fifth edition incorporates a helpful new resource that provides an overview of every major theory of criminal and deviant behavior - Table 12.1. An invaluable pedagogical tool, this table directs students to the corresponding chapter for each theory; it also includes brief entries on each theory's major proponents, concepts, propositions, empirical validity, and policy implications. Encouraging students to carefully review - and thoughtfully compare - these theories, the table creates a dynamic connection between readers and the text. Ideal for courses on theories of crime, delinquency, and deviance, Criminological Theories, Fifth Edition, also serves as an excellent supplement for courses in criminology, juvenile delinquency, deviance, and criminal behavior.