CRIMINOLOGY COMPREHENSIVE EXAM – DAY ONE
Answer questions 1 and 2. Then answer either question 3 or question 4.
1.
Among classic sociological theorists, Durkheim has been particularly influential
in the study of crime. Please explain what contemporary theories of crime draw
from Durkheim, and how they have reformulated his original insights. Include as
many different theoretical perspectives as possible.
2.
Over the past few decades, there has been considerable debate about the
relationship between age and crime. Please explain the debate and the major
points of contention. Summarize the arguments made by the different participants
in this debate and what sorts of evidence they use to support their views. Explain
the methodological issues that are raised.
3.
Most existing theories of crime were developed primarily to explain male
offending. Daly and Chesney-Lind have raised what they call the
“generalizability” question in criminology. Do these existing theories apply to
females, or are different (or modified) theories needed to account for female
offending? Based on empirical evidence, which existing theories best explain the
etiology of female offending?
4.
Two scholars agree to debate the death penalty. One is a retributivist, and the
other approaches the topic from a deterrence perspective. What arguments are
each likely to make, and how might the other side try to rebut each of the points
raised by his or her opponent? Do the two sides actually speak to any of the same
issues?
CRIMINOLOGY COMPREHENSIVE EXAM – DAY TWO
Answer question 1. Then answer two from questions 2, 3, 4, and 5.
1.
It has been argued that prisons do not work. Discuss the various functions prisons
are thought to perform and the extent to which contemporary prisons and
sentencing patterns and laws fulfill those functions. Cite relevant research to
support your discussion.
2.
Under what circumstances do you expect people’s behavior to be affected by the
fact that some type of conduct is against the law? For example, of what
significance is it that downloading copyrighted material from the web is illegal?
What theory or empirical research supports your answer?
3.
We know that not everyone who might make use of the courts (e.g., to report an
offense, to recover damages from an injury) does so. What factors have social
scientists identified that help to explain people’s tendencies to utilize the courts to
settle a dispute or make a claim? What factors, in your assessment, have not been
adequately explored (or explored with the proper measures, data, or research
design)?
4.
Therapeutic jurisprudence seems to be a primary focus of criminal justice
innovation in recent years. What is the origin of therapeutic jurisprudence, what
forms does it take, and what does evaluation research indicate about its
effectiveness?
5.
The Texas Legislature currently is considering limits on prison capacity and
increases in funding for community-based sanctioning like probation and parole.
What does current research indicate about the advisability of increased funding
for probation and parole and limits on prison capacity?