Human ecology, crime, and crime control: linking individual behavior and aggregate crime.
The paper extends previous research published by Cohen, Machalek, Vila, and others on the evolutionary-ecological paradigm for understanding criminal behavior. After reviewing literature related to human ecology and crime, the paper focuses on elements relevant to human ecology-biology, development, and ecological factors--and their role in criminal behavior. Major emphasis is placed on the linkages between individual factors and macro-level crime using chronic offending as a case in point. The principles of evolutionary ecology then are used to discuss counterstrategies to crime, and the prospects for protection/avoidance, deterrent, and nurturant strategies in light of evidence on chronic offending.
Savage
Joanne
J
Department of Justice, Law and Society, American University, 4400 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20016-8043, USA. jsavage@american.edu
Vila
Bryan
B
D005075:Biological Evolution; D003415:Crime / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D003417:Criminal Psychology; D004463:Ecology; D006801:Humans; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D012008:Recurrence; D012307:Risk Factors; D012919:Social Behavior