Criminology Lecture Notes: Norms, Moral Codes, and Values

Overview

• Focus: Understanding norms, moral codes, and values
• Unit: Criminological theories (Unit 2)
• Assessment Criteria: 1.1
• Objective: Explain the difference between criminal and deviant behavior

Key Concepts

Norms

• Definition: Specific rules or expectations for socially acceptable behavior
• Function: Guide individual behavior in social contexts
• Variability:
  • Social Location: Behaviors change by setting (e.g., bus, school, party, sports)
  • Social Characteristics: Age, gender, ethnicity, cultural background, religious beliefs
  • Examples:
    • Dressing appropriately for school or work versus wearing pajamas for sleeping
    • Being quiet in a library or doctor's office versus being loud at a party
    • Play in the park being normal for children, but not for the elderly

Moral Codes

• Definition: Code of ethics guiding actions in specific situations
• Related to: Social institutions (education, government, criminal justice)
• Expectations: Individuals should act morally and justly
• Examples:
  • Healthcare workers maintaining patient confidentiality
  • Teachers conducting themselves professionally and aiding students
  • Police ensuring equal treatment, assuming innocence until proven guilty

Values

• Definition: Universal beliefs about right actions in society
• Relation to Norms: Reflect societal norms
• Changeability: Subject to societal attitude changes
• Common Values:
  • Meritocracy: Reward for hard work
  • Protection of children's innocence
  • Equality and respect for all, regardless of social characteristics
• Issues: Not universally adhered to, leading to deviance

Conclusion

• Significance: Understanding these concepts is crucial for distinguishing between criminal and deviant behaviors in society.