Criminological Theory, Pearson New International Edition, 6th edition

For courses in Criminology, Criminological Theory, Theories of Crime, Crime in America.

The authoritative resource for criminological theory.

Criminological Theory, 6/e provides concise chronological coverage of all the major criminological theories. The text puts theories into socio-historical context to illustrate how and why certain theories evolved, why they were popular at particular points in time, and how they are still active and influential today. The authors also examine the research and policies that were inspired by each theory. Specifically designed to suit one-semester courses, students and instructors alike will appreciate the text’s straight-forward approach, clear language, and comprehensive coverage.

For courses in Criminology, Criminological Theory, Theories of Crime, Crime in America.

The authoritative resource for criminological theory.

Criminological Theory, 6/e provides concise chronological coverage of all the major criminological theories. The text puts theories into socio-historical context to illustrate how and why certain theories evolved, why they were popular at particular points in time, and how they are still active and influential today. The authors also examine the research and policies that were inspired by each theory. Specifically designed to suit one-semester courses, students and instructors alike will appreciate the text’s straight-forward approach, clear language, and comprehensive coverage.

Hallmark Features

Helps students maximize learning. Each chapter is organized logically, follows a familiar format, and can stand on its own without cross-referencing other chapters. This accessible, straight-forward format is engaging and easy to read and helps students stay focused.

Provides a comprehensive theory-centered resource. Williams & McShane take a theory-oriented approach, setting it apart from most criminology texts that include more content on generic crime. For years, the text has been the authoritative resource for masters and doctoral students studying for comprehensive exams.

Encourages a well-rounded understanding of theory. Material is explained with substantial background information, which encourages better understanding of the social, political, and economic forces that shape a given theory in its era. Students are more likely to retain information when they understand it in context.

Provides authoritative information. Original theorists reviewed and approved most of the more contemporary theory descriptions to ensure the interpretations of the major theories are accurate.

Engages students with contemporary examples. The text includes numerous examplesof recent, well-known crimes and criminals that illustratehow the theories apply to current events.

The new Sixth Edition has been updated to incorporate the most recent developments in the field as well as instructor and reviewer feedback. It has also been condensed to better suit a one-semester schedule.

Revised! Chapters 14 and 15 have been revised—in this edition, Chapter 14 covers contemporary social process approaches. Chapter 15 discusses the broader context of integrative theories as well as metatheory. Condensed! The 6^th edition has been condensed to 15 chapters—from 16 in the previous edition.

• The new condensed format is designed to better suit one-semester courses that are often 15 weeks long.

Improved! Chapter bibliographies have been expanded—to include related sources useful in researching a particular theoretical area.

New! Biographies of major theorists—have been added to the chapters.

• Biographies help students see the similarities and differences between theorists’ careers and how becoming a criminologist is not always a deliberate career path.

New! Learning resources have been added—to all chapters, to help students prepare for essay exams and stimulate class discussion. Resources include:

• practice essay questions
• informative web links
• critical-thinking questions
• more examples of how theories are encountered in real life