Criminal Justice Practice Exam

For Chicago theorists, social disorganization is defined by several characteristics. Which of the following is NOT one of the characteristics of social disorganization?

1. There is an absence of gangs and gang-related delinquency

2. There is little encouragement, training, or opportunity for legitimate employment

3. There are many opportunities for delinquent behaviour

4. The usual controls over delinquents are largely absent

The correct answer is: There is an absence of gangs and gang-related delinquency

In the context of Chicago theorists and their understanding of social disorganization, the defining characteristics typically highlight conditions that contribute to crime and delinquency in communities. The correct option identifies a characteristic that does not align with the principles of social disorganization theory. Social disorganization theory posits that areas with high crime rates often experience a breakdown of social institutions and community structures. Key characteristics of such disorganized areas include a lack of legitimate employment opportunities, which can lead to increased delinquency, and the presence of numerous opportunities for delinquent behavior due to weakened social controls and community norms. Areas suffering from social disorganization typically see little effective social control or oversight of behavior, allowing for delinquency to flourish. The assertion that there is an absence of gangs and gang-related delinquency contradicts these principles because social disorganization often correlates with the presence of gangs. In highly disorganized neighborhoods, gangs may emerge as alternative social structures, demonstrating the opposite scenario where gang-related activity is prevalent rather than absent. Therefore, recognizing that social disorganization is often associated with gang presence and related issues clarifies why the absence of gangs does not fit the model described by Chicago theorists.