The 2013 FBI Uniform Crime Report, Crime In The United State

The 2013 FBI Uniform Crime Report, Crime in the United States, 2012

The 2013 FBI Uniform Crime Report, Crime in the United States, 2012 (n.d.), indicates that females accounted for about 26.2% of arrestees for 2012. The mid-year 2010 Bureau of Justice Statistics (Minton, 2011) report also indicates that 12.3% of incarcerated offenders were female. While these numbers are rather small compared to male offenders’ rates, there has been a significant increase in these percentages in recent years. Some criminologists argue that accompanying this increase is a fundamental change in the nature and the extent of female offending, while others suggest that there is no fundamental change in female offending but, rather, a shift in society’s perception of particular crimes associated with female offenders.

Vigorous prosecution of petty crimes, for example, may be at the root of the increase in numbers of female offenders in recent years. This leaves open the possibility that female offenders have, like males, been engaging in criminal behavior, but only recently held accountable at a comparable rate. Although there is much debate on both sides of the argument about whether there is a significant difference in male and female criminal behavior, how society views gender roles certainly affects how female offenders are perceived. While there appears to be no definitive answer as to whether male and female offenders are significantly different, the question is far from moot, as the potential difference affects how crime prevention and treatment programs are crafted and whether differences that influence criminal behavior may be addressed.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Understanding the characteristics and behavioral differences between male and female offenders is crucial in the criminal justice system. While both genders engage in criminal activity, their motivations, societal perceptions, and the approaches needed for effective prevention and treatment differ significantly. This essay compares and contrasts the characteristics associated with male and female offenders, examines their similarities and differences, and concludes with insights into the psychological and behavioral aspects influencing their criminal conduct.

Characteristics of Female Offenders

Female offenders often exhibit distinct characteristics influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors. They tend to be less physically aggressive than males and are more likely to commit property crimes or status offenses (Bloom & Covington, 2010). Psychologically, many female offenders have histories of trauma, substance abuse, and mental health issues, which can contribute to their criminal behavior (Miller et al., 2011). Additionally, societal gender roles and expectations often shape the pathways into offending behavior, with some females engaging in crimes such as theft or prostitution under socioeconomic pressures or coercion. The prevalence of family-related issues, such as unstable backgrounds and histories of abuse, also significantly influence female criminality (Daly & Chesney-Lind, 2013).

Characteristics of Male Offenders

Male offenders are generally more physically aggressive and more likely to commit violent crimes such as assault, robbery, and homicide (Miethe & McCorkle, 2019). Their pathway into criminal behavior often involves peer influence, societal expectations of masculinity, and impulsivity (Miller et al., 2011). Males tend to have higher rates of substance abuse and are more frequently involved in gang activity, which further facilitates involvement in violent and organized crime (Katz & Webb, 2010). Their behavior is often characterized by risk-taking and a propensity for dominance and control, rooted in socialization processes that emphasize masculinity and toughness.

Similarities between Male and Female Offenders

Despite differences, both male and female offenders share several characteristics. Both groups are influenced by socioeconomic disadvantages, family history, and mental health issues (Daly & Chesney-Lind, 2013). Substance abuse is prevalent across genders, often acting as both a cause and consequence of criminal behavior (Miethe & McCorkle, 2019). Furthermore, criminality among both sexes can be a reaction to environmental stressors and lack of access to legitimate opportunities, illustrating the role of social factors in criminal pathways.

Differences Between Male and Female Offenders

The most notable differences lie in the types of crimes committed and societal perceptions. Women are more involved in non-violent crimes, partly due to societal expectations and the nature of their victimization (Bloom & Covington, 2010). Conversely, males are more likely to be involved in violent and organized crime. Additionally, societal perceptions tend to judge female offenders more harshly or sympathetically, depending on the context, influencing responses in the justice system (Daly & Chesney-Lind, 2013). Gender socialization also contributes to differences in criminal motivation, with females often driven by economic dependence or victimization, whereas males often engage in crime to assert dominance and control.

Conclusion

In conclusion, male and female offenders exhibit both shared and distinct characteristics shaped by biological, psychological, and social factors. Females tend to commit less violent crimes and are heavily influenced by personal histories of trauma and socioeconomic pressures, whereas males are more associated with violent and impulsive crimes driven by socialization and peer influence. Understanding these differences is essential for designing targeted crime prevention and intervention programs that effectively address the unique needs of each gender. Recognizing the psychological and behavioral distinctions can improve rehabilitation efforts and promote more equitable justice practices.

References

1. Bloom, B., & Covington, S. (2010). Gender-responsive treatment and services for women involved in the criminal justice system. National Institute of Corrections.
2. Daly, K., & Chesney-Lind, M. (2013). Feminism and criminology. Critical Criminology, 21(3), 269-287.
3. Katz, J., & Webb, S. (2010). Men, masculinities, and crime. In R. Matthews (Ed.), The routledge international handbook of gender and crime (pp. 147-163). Routledge.
4. Miller, J. M., Sander, J., & Cox, J. J. (2011). Gender, crime, and criminal justice. Routledge.
5. Miethe, T. D., & McCorkle, R. C. (2019). Crime and criminal justice: An overview. Routledge.
6. Minton, S. A. (2011). Jail incarceration and the role of women. Bureau of Justice Statistics.
7. Williams, J., & Somji, M. (2019). Women, violence, and the criminal justice system. Routledge.
8. Hershberger, S. L., & colleagues. (2014). Gender difference in diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues in criminal offenders. Journal of Offender Rehabilitation.
9. Chesney-Lind, M., & Shelden, R. G. (2014). Girls, gangs, and gender: Gendered justice in youth gangs. Routledge.
10. Covington, S. S., & Bloom, B. (2014). Gender-responsive treatment for women offenders in correctional settings. Corrections Management Quarterly.