Students are required to complete a 4-5 page (double spaced) critical examination of a crime or criminal case using one of the sociological perspectives we discussed in class (strain, interactionism, control, conflict).
The primary objective and bulk of this assignment is to apply criminological concepts to the crime or criminal case covered in your media source (newspaper or other media article).
o Provide a very short synopsis of the crime/case (1-2 paragraphs)
o Briefly describe the main points and assumptions of your chosen theory (1-2 paragraphs)
o Draw on key concepts discussed in class or in the textbook to explain or examine aspects of the crime committed, the criminal, the victim(s) and their portrayal in the media.
If youre stuck, think about:
How one might use the theoretical concepts to explain the behaviour/environment/upbringing of the perpetrator.
How are the victim(s) and perpetrator(s) represented? Are any stereotypes relied upon in communicating their guilt or innocence?
What broader messages about crime and its commission are being communicated?
