Social Constructs of Crimes and Criminals: A Critical Analysis

The concept of what constitutes a crime and who is labeled a criminal is deeply rooted in societal norms and expectations. This article delves into the social construction of crimes and criminals, particularly examining how our understanding of these phenomena is influenced by socialization and the criminal justice system.

Socialization and the Evolutionary Task of Parents

Parents have a vital yet often unacknowledged role in socializing their children, an evolutionary task that goes beyond the provision of basic needs. Proper socialization involves equipping individuals with the necessary skills and attitudes to function in society as responsible adults. Dysfunctional families, lacking the requisite skills themselves, perpetuate this cycle, leading to what can be seen as a compounding generational curse. This curse can culminate in criminal behavior, as individuals may lack the moral and societal guidelines needed to navigate the complexities of human interaction responsibly.

The Social Construction of Crime

Our society decides through its legal system what acts are considered crimes and who is branded as a criminal. The legal system is not a monolithic entity capable of objective judgment, but rather a reflection of societal values and norms. Consider the example of recreational marijuana. In Oklahoma, where it is illegal, possessing marijuana might lead to criminal charges. However, in states like Colorado, where it is legal, the same act might go unpunished. This variation illustrates how laws can create or negate the conditions for criminal behavior based on societal decisions.

Amorphous Nature of Criminality

The concept of criminality is further complicated by the situational context. Stated differently, the evaluation of an act as criminal is based on a multitude of factors, including the perpetrator, the victim, and the means by which the act is committed. For instance, stealing a loaf of bread to feed one's family can lead to criminal charges, indicating that the context and intent behind an act are critical in determining its classification.

The Role of Role Models in Shaping Criminal Behavior

Role models play a significant role in shaping the behaviors of younger generations. Growing up in environments where criminal activities are normalized through exposure to role models—such as parents or community figures—increases the likelihood of these behaviors being internalized. For example, in areas like Compton with high gang incidences, the role models often come from a life of crime. This can create a cycle where young people gravitate towards such behaviors, finding them as the only viable path to financial stability, despite its ethical implications.

The Criminal Justice System and Its Impact

The criminal justice system not only imposes punishment but also shapes the reality of those it incarcerates. The system's effectiveness in rehabilitation versus punishment is a critical point of contention. The U.S. prison system, for example, has extremely high recidivism rates, often over 70%, while Norway's prison system, designed primarily for rehabilitation, has much lower recidivism rates, typically around 30-40%. These stark differences highlight the transformative power of the criminal justice system and its impact on individual reintegration into society.

In conclusion, the social construction of crimes and criminals is a complex interplay of individual behaviors, societal norms, and legal frameworks. Understanding this multifaceted reality is essential for developing more humane and effective approaches to criminal justice and rehabilitation.