Crime Statistics Compiled by the FBI in its yearly crime index show what many in the law enforcement field consider to be an encouraging trend. From 1990 to 1995, the crime rate declined steadily in every category: murders, rapes, assaults, robberies, burglaries, and thefts. Sociologists and Criminologists debate the explanation for this downward turn in crime rates; improved economic conditions and tougher criminal justice measures are two of the theories offered. Other experts, however, dispute whether the decline is significant, pointing out that crime rates in many categories are still higher than in the mid 1980s. These scholars also deny that the trend of decreasing crime rates will continue.

Contents:

Forward, Introduction, Chapter 1 - What Causes Crime?, Chapter Preface, Social Factors Cause Crime, Economic Factors Cause Crime, Social Decay Invites Crime, Genetic Factors May Cause Criminal Behaviour, A Lack of Morals Causes Criminal Behaviour, A Lack of Religion does not cause crime, Chapter 2 - Is Crime Increaing?, Chapter preface, Yes: Crime is Increasing, Crime is Incresing, Violent Crime is Increasing, The Increasing Fear of Crime is Justified, No: Crime is not Increasing, Violent Crime is not Increasing, The Extent of Crime has been exaggerated, Crime id Decreasing, The Increasing Fear of Crime is Unwarranted, Chapter 3 - Can Stronger Criminal Justice Measures Prevent Crime?, Chapter Preface, Yes: Tougher Criminal Justice Measures can Prevent Crime, tougher laws can prevent crime, Imprisoning More Criminals can Prevent Crime, "three strikes" laws can prevent crime, community policing strategies can prevent crime, No: Tougher Criminal Justice Measures will not Prevent Crime, tougher laws will not prevent crime, Rehabilitating criminals can prevent crime, "three strikes" laws will not prevent crime, community policing strategies do little to prevent crime, Chapter 4 - How Can Juvenile Crime Be Prevented?, preveting juvenile crime: an overview, tough punishments are necessary to prevent juvenile crime, both prevention programs and punishments are needed to control juvenile crime, Violence prevention programs can stop juvenile crime, Harsh punishments for juveniles are not justified, prevention Effects should be aimed at adult violence, bibliography, Organizations to Contact, Index.