Criminological Theories: Introduction, Evaluation, and Application

In the Fourth Edition of Criminological Theories: Introduction, Evaluation, and Application, Ronald L. Akers and new coauthor Christine S. Sellers provide a concise but thorough review and appraisal of the leading theories of crime and criminal justice. Based on the widespread success of the first three editions, this landmark book has been updated and revised to keep current with changes in the development, testing, integration, and application of important criminological theories.

The Fourth Edition continues its focus on evaluating the principal criminological theories, chiefly on the basis of their empirical validity as demonstrated through relevant research. The Fourth Edition also enhances the review and empirical evaluation of classic and contemporary applications of each theory that were incorporated into the Third Edition.

Each chapter has been revised and updated to reflect developments in theory, research, and applications. There are now separate chapters on Biological Theories and Psychological Theories. Among the many theoretical and applied issues that are introduced, updated, reorganized, and/or expanded are:

* Assessing the Quality of Research
* Theory and Ideology
* Peer Groups and Influences
* Religious Factors
* Life Course Criminology
* Behavioral Genetics and Evolutionary Theory
* Restorative Justice
* Masculinities
* Institutional-Anomie Theory