Criminal Behavior

Criminal Behavior

The ten (10-12) paper: Includes cover page, content page, abstract page, references page and the body of research

Focus of the Research Paper

Select a criminal justice topic/problem to define, describe the scope and consequences of the problem, interpret the issue with a criminological theory, and assess society’s responses to the problem (including public policies and other less formal responses). Papers should also present a clearly reasoned alternative that is supported by scholarly research.

While the following example can be modified to suit your needs, using this outline as a guide will likely result in a high quality final paper:

1. Title
2. Abstract
3. What is the topic problem? Which theory best explain the issue?
4. Why does this problem qualify as a “theories of criminal behavior issue”?
5. What are the individual and social implications of this problem? Discussion of implications should be supported by accurate research data.
6. What do the experts say about the problem?
7. What have we, as a society, done about this problem? Again, consider public policies and other, less formal responses.
8. How is this working?
9. Describe an alternative.
10. Discuss why the alternative is, or can be, an effective response to the problem. Remember to consider negative consequences of the alternative response.
11. Conclude with reflections and thoughts about your chosen social problem. This is a good place to include personal opinions, assuming you wish to share them in a research paper.

Note

1. Must begin with an introductory paragraph that has a succinct thesis statement.
2. Must address the topic of the paper with critical thought.
3. Must end with a conclusion that reaffirms your thesis.
4. Must use at least five scholarly resources.
5. Must document all sources in APA style
6. Must include a separate reference page, formatted according to APA style.