The rational choice perspective theory and prevention

Abstract

The rational-choice perspective is one approach that focuses on the rewards and risks derived from criminal behaviour. The perspective highlights offenders' logical thinking, their attitudes of how to process information and evaluate opportunities and alternatives. It stresses calculated decision-making, arguing that offenders choose how to act after deciding whether a particular kind of behaviour is beneficial or not. Hence offenders choose to commit crime or to adopt a criminal lifestyle in order to acquire certain needs and in weighing up opportunities, costs and benefits. This paper is intended to present the criminological theory of rationality or decision-making of offenders. It will recall archaic "classical criminology" based on the utilitarian principles which tend to be undergoing a rebirth and challenging modifications. As in any other theory the aspect of controversy shall be outlined. In addition this paper shall introduce the interesting concepts of crime prevention and displacement.