Description
Book SynopsisPressured Into Crime: An Overview of General Strain Theory by Robert Agnew provides an overview of general strain theory (GST), one of the leading explanations of crime and delinquency, developed by author Robert Agnew. Written to be student-friendly, Pressured Into Crime features numerous real-world examples, insightful and colorful quotes from former and active criminals, clear summaries of major points, and challenging review and discussion questions at the end of each chapter. This book provides the following:* It compares and contrasts GST to other leading theories of crime, including biopsychological, control, social learning, routine activities, and social disorganization theories (presenting brief descriptions of these theories). * It describes the evidence on GST, including the most current research on the types of strains most likely to cause crime, why these strains cause crime, and the factors that influence the effects of strains on crime. * It employs GST to explain
Trade ReviewPressured Into Crime presents a compelling case that strain is intimately implicated in criminal behavior. Conceptually sophisticated and with a strong fidelity to empirical research, this volume is an exemplar in criminological theorizing. Indeed, Robert Agnew has crafted a classic contribution that no scholar can afford to ignore and that will be ideal reading in a range of criminology courses. * Francis T. Cullen, University of Cincinnati, and Past President, American Society of Criminology *
Table of Contents1. Why Do Individuals Engage in Crime? ; 2. Why Do Strains Increase the Likelihood of Crime? ; 3. What Types of Strains Are Most Likely To Cause Crime? ; 4. Why Are Some Individuals More Likely Than Others To Respond to Strains With Crime? ; 5. How Does General Strain Theory Explain Patterns of Offending Over the Life Course? ; 6. How Does General Strain Theory Explain Gender, Class, and Race/Ethnic Differences in Offending? ; 7. How Does General Strain Theory Explain Community and Societal Differences in Offending? ; 8. What Recommendations Does General Strain Theory Make for Reducing Crime? ; 9. An Overview of General Strain Theory
