Description
For this question, you will be required to write out an answer, in full sentences. Do not cite directly from the readings or lectures; rather, use your own words. You are strongly encouraged to prepare your answer ahead of time.
Long-answer Question (10 points)
Throughout this course, you undoubtedly thought, “If I was in charge, I would do this or that to solve/ curb/ decrease crime” (or perhaps you didn’t think that, so now is the time!). For this exam question, you are tasked with providing well-thought out and well-supported recommendations for dealing with the problem of crime (either at a national level or a community level). For example, some of you might focus on law-making while others may focus on community solutions (or you could focus on both, but make sure you justify / explain why you’re focusing on that particular area).
Some of you will centre your recommendations about ‘what to do about crime’ around more traditional criminological approaches, while others will take a more radical /new/ ‘out of the box’ approach, so to speak. Regardless of which approach you take, your recommendations have to be supported by evidence. For example, you cannot argue we need to re-introduce the death penalty to curb crime, since research does not support this as a viable solution to crime. Make sure you reference at least TWO theories, ONE documentary (this includes video clips; TedTalks, or news stories), that we watched during the course, as well as research studies we discussed, and other concepts we covered. For example, if you argue that we should focus on interventions with young people, you should be referring to the correlates of crime (that age is one of the correlates; explain what a correlate of crime is; explain that age – be specific – is correlated, etc.,). However, keep in mind that correlates of crime is NOT a theory of crime.
Theories refer to the following, although this is not an extensive list: labelling theory, conflict theories, strain theory, general strain theory, social bond theory, routine activities theory, penal abolition, etc. (If you’re unsure, email me).
Additional information that may be useful in formulating your answer:
You will be marked on your ability to mobilize course material and show that you have engaged with the course content for this question. This question is worth 10 points, so make sure that you include enough information, and organize your answer properly.
Suggested length: 1250 – 1500 words;
Please note that you should NOT use an essay format (this means you do not need an introduction, body paragraphs and conclusion). If you want to have an introduction and conclusion, make it brief. Your grade will be based on the content of your answer, not on the format you use.
However, you are encouraged to think about the way you structure your answer, and make it flow, make connections between the various ideas you present, etc. DO NOT just list course material; the answer should ‘make logical sense’ – as in, you need to connect the ideas, justify them, support them with evidence, etc.
While you won’t be marked for grammar and spelling, the clearer your writing is, the more likely it is that your ideas will be understood, and you will receive the marks you deserve.
You need to USE YOUR OWN WORDS. Do not use direct quotes from the textbook or lecture. Because you’ll be using your own words, and because this is an exam, you do not need to cite / reference your sources.
The use of Chat GPT or other AI source is strictly prohibited and further, these won’t give you a good answer anyway, because you need to mobilize course material to answer this question.
i have completed most of it, all I need is 1400 words if you could just complete my work, I’ve attached it below:
My idea for better rehabilitation centers in Canada came from the documentary that we watched in class about the drug crisis in Portugal. Over the past decade in Canada drugs have become more and more dangerous and potent increasing the overdose rate and fatalities caused by drugs. In Portugal they ran into the same problem. They realized that 1% of their population was addicted to drugs. They decided to decriminalize all drugs, meaning anyone who is caught in possession, or caught using won’t get a criminal record and won’t have to appear in front of a judge. This inspired me to think of a change that we can implement here in Canada to reduce the number of drug related deaths. To relate this strategy to criminal theories learned in class, we will use elements from the social bond theory and the routine activities theory.
In Portugal they implemented a unique policy, where they decriminalized all small amounts of drugs for personal use. Instead of viewing the drug epidemic as a criminal offence, they treat it as a public health concern. Whenever someone is caught in possession of drugs, instead of being put in front of a judge, they are referred to a Dissuasion Commission which consists of, social workers, medical assistance and a legal professional. Instead of focusing on the issue as a criminal matter, they put their focus to harm reduction, rehabilitation centers and treatments. They didn’t want to penalize their citizens for this but rather look at the root cause and try to fix it. Anytime someone is caught, they help through counselling and treatment. They also implemented education programs targeted towards school and the youth. These programs raise awareness about the associated risks that come with drug abuse. They want to stop the problem before it has a chance to start.
Following Portugal in their approach we can have more success in Canada. Portugal decriminalized the possession of drugs for personal use and focused more on treating addiction as a health issue rather than a criminal offence. Their approach is moving away from punitive measures and putting the focus on harm reduction, prevention and treatment. By doing this we can transform rehab centers into safe spaces that prioritize treating individuals by addressing the root cause of bad behaviors and promoting positive relationships and personal growth. This will tremendously help to reintegrate them into society and reduce the chances of them re engaging in harmful behaviors.
The social bond theory, which states that strong social bonds prevent criminal behavior, relates to this approach. In rehab centers it’s very important to form strong bonds, whether that be with other people in the centers, the counselors or the mentors. People who form strong relationships, follow the rules of society and engage in lawful activities are less likely to continue to engage in criminal behavior. If we use this theory for rehab centers, they can have a more positive environment for building relationships. By doing this it can create more positive influences to help people in their journey to recovery.
The routines activities theory explains how crime occurs in a specific environment. This theory suggests that crime occurs only when three elements are present, a motivated offender, a suitable target, and the absence of a capable guardian. If we implement this theory in the rehab centers, we can greatly increase the chances of success. We need to change daily activities withing the center. Having a good schedule, education and activities can help people in these centers focus on more positive things, which will in turn reduce chances of criminal behavior.
In Canada, especially Vancouver has been struggling with the severe opioid epidemic, followed by increase in death and overdose rates. Although after they decriminalized drugs, they implemented some harm reduction measures, like safe injection sites and a supervised area for people to consume safely but they still have a long way to go.
