What does conservative criminology emphasize?

Conservative criminology places a strong emphasis on the ideas of personal responsibility and traditional values. This perspective asserts that individuals are accountable for their actions and that moral standards should be upheld in society. The belief is that crime results from a failure of individuals to adhere to these values, and therefore, it is crucial to promote personal accountability in both behavior and decision-making.

This approach often highlights the importance of a stable family structure and community morals as essential components in preventing crime. It tends to advocate for more punitive measures and law enforcement strategies aimed at deterring criminal behavior, reflecting a belief that society should uphold rules that reinforce responsible social conduct.

By focusing on personal responsibility, conservative criminology positions itself in contrast to approaches that view crime primarily as a result of systemic or societal issues, which explains why options emphasizing community rehabilitation programs or dismantling systemic inequalities do not align with this viewpoint.