p. 282. What is the study of criminology?
- Steve Case, Steve CaseProfessor of Criminology, University of Loughborough
- Phil Johnson, Phil JohnsonCriminology Lecturer and Academic Subject Leader, University Centre at Blackburn College
- David Manlow, David ManlowPrincipal Lecturer in Criminology
- Roger SmithRoger SmithProfessor of Social Work, Durham University
- and Kate WilliamsKate WilliamsSenior Lecturer in Criminology, Aberystwyth University
Abstract
This chapter focuses on criminology as an academic subject, what it looks like and how the student will be expected to study it. The discussion is underpinned by what is called the ‘triad of criminology’, a basic framework for understanding how criminology fits together through the study of definitions of crime, explanations of criminal behaviour, and responses to crime and criminal behaviour. The chapter also considers the interrelationships between criminology and selected other social sciences such as sociology and psychology; categories and theories of crime; and people, organisations, and systems involved in criminal justice. The goal is to prepare the student for his/her journey through criminology — its objectives, structure, content, study methods, and uses. It also explores the type of criminology that the student will consume, critique, and create throughout his/her engagement with this text.
