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0
S
Scarlett Frost
07/12/2025
Criminology
Criminology Unit 2
103
•
7 Dec 2025
•
Introduction to Criminology: Unit 2 Overview
S
Scarlett Frost
@carlettrost_teabknxn
1 / 4
Understanding Crime and Deviance
Think about this: saving someone's life heroically isn't criminal, but it's definitely deviant behaviour because it's unusual. Deviance simply means behaviour that stands out from the norm - whether it's good, eccentric, or disapproved of.
Criminal behaviour has two key definitions you need to know. The legal definition requires both actus reus (guilty act) and mens rea (guilty mind). The social definition considers what society actually thinks should be criminal and whether laws are properly enforced.
When you break the law, you'll face formal sanctions. These range from custodial sentences (prison time) to community sentences (like probation or fines) to simple police cautions. Serious crimes like murder are indictable offences tried in crown court, whilst minor ones like speeding are summary offences handled by magistrates.
Key Point: Remember this crucial distinction - not all crimes are deviant, not all deviant acts are crimes, but some acts are both criminal and deviant!
How Culture Shapes What's Criminal
What's fascinating about crime is how dramatically it varies across cultures. Take polygamy - having multiple spouses is perfectly legal in certain Muslim countries but illegal almost everywhere else, including the UK where bigamy can land you seven years in prison.
Homosexuality provides another striking example of social construction in action. Whilst it's legal across Europe and the Americas, 75 countries still criminalise male homosexuality, often due to religious beliefs or traditional values.
Cannabis laws show massive global variation too. Portugal has decriminalised possession entirely, treating it as a health issue rather than a criminal one. Meanwhile, other countries maintain strict prohibition, viewing cannabis as a dangerous gateway drug that leads to harder substances.
Even adultery demonstrates cultural differences - it's criminalised in many Muslim and some Christian African countries due to religious influence, but legal in most Western nations. These examples prove that crime isn't naturally occurring but created by society.
Reality Check: What's criminal in one culture might be completely normal in another - crime is genuinely socially constructed rather than universal.
How Crime Changes Over Time
Laws aren't static - they evolve as society's values shift. Homosexuality was criminalised in 1885 but gradually became legal: first at age 21 in 1967, then 18 in 1994, and finally 16 in 2000. This change happened because of the Wolfenden Report, successful campaigns, and growing belief in human rights.
Capital punishment shows another dramatic shift. Once used for numerous offences, it was restricted to just murder and treason before being abolished completely in 1965. Corporal punishment (flogging, birching) was banned in 1967 as society became more civilised and focused on rehabilitation rather than brutal deterrence.
Gun control laws tightened rapidly after tragic events. The Hungerford shooting in 1987 and Dunblane massacre in 1996 led to handgun bans, showing how public opinion and campaigns like Snowdrop can drive legal change.
Children's status has transformed completely. Once treated as mini-adults who worked in factories, they're now seen as innocent beings needing protection. Compulsory schooling from 1880 and various Children Acts reflect this fundamental shift in how society views childhood.
Historical Insight: Portugal's approach to drugs since 2001 shows how dramatic change is possible - they treat possession as a civil matter, focusing on public health rather than punishment.
When Circumstances Matter
The same crime can be treated very differently depending on the situation. Moral panics - like during the 2011 London riots - can lead to harsher sentences for relatively minor offences because society feels threatened.
Police typifications (stereotypes about typical criminals) significantly affect enforcement. Research shows officers treat middle-class offenders more leniently than working-class ones, and factors like your age, ethnicity, attitude, and even the time of day influence whether you get arrested.
The Age of Criminal Responsibility (ACR) recognises that circumstances matter. In England and Wales, it's 10 years old (12 in Scotland) because younger children supposedly can't understand their actions' full meaning. Youth courts handle under-18s differently, using detention centres rather than adult prisons.
Homicide laws show how mental state affects justice. The Homicide Act 1957 created defences like diminished responsibility and loss of control - recognising that someone's mental condition or extreme circumstances can reduce murder to manslaughter.
Legal Reality: Your background, behaviour, and mental state when committing a crime can dramatically affect both whether you're caught and how you're punished.
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This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
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Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
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Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Introduction to Criminology: Unit 2 Overview
S
Scarlett Frost
@carlettrost_teabknxn
Ever wondered why some behaviours are considered criminal in one country but perfectly legal in another? Criminology explores how societies define crime and deviance, showing that what's considered "criminal" isn't set in stone - it changes based on culture, time,... Show more
Understanding Crime and Deviance
Think about this: saving someone's life heroically isn't criminal, but it's definitely deviant behaviour because it's unusual. Deviance simply means behaviour that stands out from the norm - whether it's good, eccentric, or disapproved of.
Criminal behaviour has two key definitions you need to know. The legal definition requires both actus reus (guilty act) and mens rea (guilty mind). The social definition considers what society actually thinks should be criminal and whether laws are properly enforced.
When you break the law, you'll face formal sanctions. These range from custodial sentences (prison time) to community sentences (like probation or fines) to simple police cautions. Serious crimes like murder are indictable offences tried in crown court, whilst minor ones like speeding are summary offences handled by magistrates.
Key Point: Remember this crucial distinction - not all crimes are deviant, not all deviant acts are crimes, but some acts are both criminal and deviant!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
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How Culture Shapes What's Criminal
What's fascinating about crime is how dramatically it varies across cultures. Take polygamy - having multiple spouses is perfectly legal in certain Muslim countries but illegal almost everywhere else, including the UK where bigamy can land you seven years in prison.
Homosexuality provides another striking example of social construction in action. Whilst it's legal across Europe and the Americas, 75 countries still criminalise male homosexuality, often due to religious beliefs or traditional values.
Cannabis laws show massive global variation too. Portugal has decriminalised possession entirely, treating it as a health issue rather than a criminal one. Meanwhile, other countries maintain strict prohibition, viewing cannabis as a dangerous gateway drug that leads to harder substances.
Even adultery demonstrates cultural differences - it's criminalised in many Muslim and some Christian African countries due to religious influence, but legal in most Western nations. These examples prove that crime isn't naturally occurring but created by society.
Reality Check: What's criminal in one culture might be completely normal in another - crime is genuinely socially constructed rather than universal.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
How Crime Changes Over Time
Laws aren't static - they evolve as society's values shift. Homosexuality was criminalised in 1885 but gradually became legal: first at age 21 in 1967, then 18 in 1994, and finally 16 in 2000. This change happened because of the Wolfenden Report, successful campaigns, and growing belief in human rights.
Capital punishment shows another dramatic shift. Once used for numerous offences, it was restricted to just murder and treason before being abolished completely in 1965. Corporal punishment (flogging, birching) was banned in 1967 as society became more civilised and focused on rehabilitation rather than brutal deterrence.
Gun control laws tightened rapidly after tragic events. The Hungerford shooting in 1987 and Dunblane massacre in 1996 led to handgun bans, showing how public opinion and campaigns like Snowdrop can drive legal change.
Children's status has transformed completely. Once treated as mini-adults who worked in factories, they're now seen as innocent beings needing protection. Compulsory schooling from 1880 and various Children Acts reflect this fundamental shift in how society views childhood.
Historical Insight: Portugal's approach to drugs since 2001 shows how dramatic change is possible - they treat possession as a civil matter, focusing on public health rather than punishment.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
When Circumstances Matter
The same crime can be treated very differently depending on the situation. Moral panics - like during the 2011 London riots - can lead to harsher sentences for relatively minor offences because society feels threatened.
Police typifications (stereotypes about typical criminals) significantly affect enforcement. Research shows officers treat middle-class offenders more leniently than working-class ones, and factors like your age, ethnicity, attitude, and even the time of day influence whether you get arrested.
The Age of Criminal Responsibility (ACR) recognises that circumstances matter. In England and Wales, it's 10 years old (12 in Scotland) because younger children supposedly can't understand their actions' full meaning. Youth courts handle under-18s differently, using detention centres rather than adult prisons.
Homicide laws show how mental state affects justice. The Homicide Act 1957 created defences like diminished responsibility and loss of control - recognising that someone's mental condition or extreme circumstances can reduce murder to manslaughter.
Legal Reality: Your background, behaviour, and mental state when committing a crime can dramatically affect both whether you're caught and how you're punished.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Most popular content: Public Health
Most popular content in Criminology
Most popular content
English - inspector calls quotes and analysis
Quotes from every main character
English Literature10
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user