Social Issues in the United Kingdom Crime Cycle 2 – Causes of Crime

CONNECT What is happening here?

Learning Intentions: Be able to explain the causes of crime Be able to explain the differences between economic and social causes Become familiar with the exam structure for KU answers Practice the skill of summarising

HOW IS SOCIAL EXCLUSION DIFFERENT FROM POVERTY?

Prioritise the causes of crime, put what you think is the most significant at the top.

Economic Reasons We live in a materialistic society. Status is measured by what people own and to appear ‘normal’ people need certain possessions. People who are unemployed or on a low income often lack the money to get these goods legally. Even when people have what seems like enough income they can still be jealous or envious of what other people have, leading them to commit crime. Some people are professional criminals who make their living from organised crime. The drug trade – importing, manufacturing and selling drugs and the associated gang crime is almost an alternative economy in some areas.

Economic Reasons Materialistic society To feel normal people need possessions

Social Reasons Learned Behaviour – family break-ups, absent fathers, poor role models and fewer poor ‘respectable’ communities lead to people having a different idea of what is acceptable or ‘right’ and ‘wrong’ and crime becomes more acceptable. For young people boredom or peer pressure and a rejection of ‘adult’ values can lead to crime for thrills where it is seen as tough and exciting e.g. joyriding. Environment – rural areas and suburbs have fewer social problems than inner city areas and estates. Deprivation, social exclusion and lack of facilities in poor areas has led to alienation where some people, particularly the young, feel cut off from society. Drug and alcohol abuse is much higher in these areas which leads to crime while people are under the influence or to pay for the habit.

Use the same technique to summarise your social reasons…

Government figures show that the 5% most disadvantaged are 100 times more likely to have multiple problems than the most advantaged 50%, including conduct disorders, police contact, cannabis use, mood disorders and alcohol abuse.

‘People commit crimes for different reasons.’ Explain why people commit crimes. 4

Point Explain Example One reason why people commit crimes is economic. Status is measured by what people own and to appear ‘normal’ people need certain possessions. People who are unemployed or on a low income often lack the money to get these goods legally. Even when people have what seems like enough income they can still be jealous or envious of what other people have. This may lead them to commit crimes such as theft.

London Riots When? What happened? Impact?