CRIMINOLOGY
Theory Application
Theorists often endorse a specific perspective when evaluating reality. However, reality can be explained from multiple perspectives. For this assignment, students will interpret reality from a variety of theoretical
lenses.
Instructions:
First, please watch two portions of the documentary “Crips & Bloods: Made in America.
From the beginning of video 14:30 minutes
From 30:00 minutes 1 hour
Next, create a word document and respond to each of the prompts below based on information presented in the video, lecture, and the readings. Students must demonstrate critical thinking skills in the responses which should be rich in content and void of fluff. Students may not collaborate – the ideas and examples must be your own.
Requirements:
The paper must be typed, 1.5 spaced, and approximately 3 pages. The responses must be in your own words [don’t plagiarize materials including the video].
1. The video addressed why individuals join gangs, the nature of gang activity, and the role
of gangs in society. Select one rational choice, one social structural and one social process
theory and describe how it was illustrated in the video. Be sure to include an explanation of the
theory and specific examples from the video to support each of the theories described. You
must use different examples for each theory. [12 points]
2. Describe the significance of the title of the video. Do you believe that a micro or macro
approach best explains the LA gang problem? Explain. As a gang expert, using one of the
theories selected for question #1, present a viable solution to address the gang issue in this
area. Be certain to include why you believe it will work. [8 points]