Rational Choice Theory And Juvenile Delinquency - 2372 Words

In my opinion on a theory that out of all the theories we have learned, the rational choice theory is a good theory to juvenile delinquency. â€Å"Rational choice theory and its assumptions about human behavior have been integrated into several criminological theories and criminal justice interventions. Rational choice theory originated during the late 18th century with the work of Cesare Beccaria. Since then, the theory has been expanded upon and extended to include other perspectives, such as deterrence, situational crime prevention, and routine activity theory. The rational choice perspective has been applied to a wide range of crimes, including robbery, drug use, vandalism, and white-collar crime†. So what is the definition of a rational theory? â€Å"The rational choice theory adopts a utilitarian belief that man is a reasoning actor who weighs means and ends, costs and benefits, and makes a rational choice. This method was designed by Cornish and Clarke to assist in thinking about situational crime prevention†. In the book it basically explains it in a much easier way. The book defines it as the, â€Å"explanations of crime and delinquency held that human behavior was a matter of choice†. Juveniles are always going to make mistakes in life. This is how they learn from right and wrong. However it to me is a choice in almost all cases. Almost all kids know what right and wrong is in early childhood. They are taught at a very young age, what they should and shouldn’t do. FromShow MoreRelatedRational Choice Theory For Juvenile Delinquency1774 Words   |  8 PagesRational Choice Theory The Rational Choice Theory, as more commonly referred to as Choice Theory, is a view as to why criminals commit crimes, and more importantly why juveniles choose to be delinquent. 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