Date of Award
8-1996
Culminating Project Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Criminal Justice: M.S.
Department
Criminal Justice
College
School of Public Affairs
First Advisor
Dick Andzenge
Second Advisor
Richard Lawrence
Third Advisor
Thomas Ward
Keywords and Subject Headings
integrative review, criminology, criminological theory, explaining criminality
Abstract
Modern social science is the result of the development of numerous perspectives which attempt to explain social phenomena. One such explanation is offered by Turner (1978). He suggests that concepts explain phenomena from either a concrete or abstract perspective which is relative to the scope conditions of time and location. This study--using Turner's scope conditions--defines time as events or periods within human existence (conception, prenatal, birth, and life-course). It defines location as either individuals (focusing on individuals or social networks) or as structures (focusing on groups, organizations, and society).
The body of knowledge related to criminal behavior is established within this study by a literature review of sampled authors (n = 104) within sociology, psychology, and biology. A qualitative, integrative review methodology is applied to determine the extent to which Turner's scope conditions (time and location) have been addressed within dominant criminological theory.
This study finds that within the sampled authors of theoretical concepts, the scope condition of time respective to the prenatal period or the event of birth is not specifically addressed. The study suggests--regarding the scope condition of location--that authors of concepts related to criminal behavior do not address possible factors (a) which originate outside the womb; (b) which may be introduced or present during the prenatal period or birth; (c) which may be perceived by the fetus in utero or at birth; (d) which reflect a social learning or psychological nature; and (e) which may influence behavior.
This study cites research outside the field of criminology concerning fetal capability to perceive, and to respond to, external stimuli before and after birth-specifically, sound and pain. A recommendation is presented for further examination and research of these possible factors during the prenatal period and the event of birth to determine (a) whether they may indeed represent a prenatal learning phase, (b) whether they may influence behavior, and (c) whether possible inclusion in criminological theory development is warranted.
Recommended Citation
Gilbertson, Douglas L., "An Integrative Review of Criminological Theory: Determining the Extent to Which the Scope Conditions of Time and Location Have Been Addressed" (1996). Culminating Projects in Criminal Justice. 25.
https://repository.stcloudstate.edu/cjs_etds/25
