Examining Theory

In this assignment, you have the opportunity to examine the theoretical principles associated with sociological perspectives of crime.

View the following Films on Demand Videos located in this week's Electronic Reserve Readings and select one for this week's assignment:

• "Prostitution Among Immigration Routes"

• "Pelican Bay State Prison: War Zone"

• "Tent City, Arizona"

Select and complete one of the following assignments about the video you selected:

Option 1: Social Structure Theory Paper

Option 2: Social Process and Social Development Theory Paper

Option 1: Social Structure Theory Paper

Social structure theories view societal, financial, and social arrangements or structures as the primary cause of deviant and criminal behaviors. After choosing one video for this assignment, address the main topic inherent in the video using a social structure theory framework. Address the key bulleted items outlined in the directions and explain how and why the content of your video may be appropriately acknowledged and studied using a social structure theoretical application.

Select one video that supports a social structure theory.

Write a 2,100- to 2,450-word paper that addresses the following:

• How does the video you selected support a social structure theory?

• What is the primary subject or content of the video?

• What social issues are raised in the video?

• What major principles of sociological theory are addressed in the video?

• What might be some possible ramifications for social policy change?

Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines.

Option 2: Social Process and Social Development Theory Paper

Social process theories view deviant and criminal behaviors as evolving mechanisms learned through societal interaction. Social development theories view deviant and criminal behaviors as part of a maturational process. The process involves numerous perspectives-including biological, psychological, and social- that all occur simultaneously as the individual progresses through life. After choosing one video for this assignment, address the main topic inherent in the video using a social process or a social development theory framework. Address the key bulleted items outlined in the directions and explain how and why the content of your video may be appropriately acknowledged and studied using a social process or a social developmental theoretical application.

Select one video which supports a social process and development theory.

Write a 2,100- to 2,450-word paper that addresses the following:

• How does the video you selected support a social process theory or a social development theory?

• What is the primary subject or content of your video?

• What social issues are raised in the video?

• What specific social process or social development theory may support your video (if applicable)?

• What might be some possible ramifications for social policy change?