RT Article
T1 Structural predictors of choice: testing a multilevel rational choice theory of crime
JF Criminology
VO 60
IS 4
SP 606
OP 636
A1 Thomas, Kyle J.
A2 Baumer, Eric P.
A2 Loughran, Thomas A.
LA English
YR 2022
UL https://krimdok.uni-tuebingen.de/Record/1839619686
AB Extant research has provided support for the micro-level predictions of rational choice models of crime. Yet, a central feature of the rational choice perspective in the broader social sciences - that it is multilevel in focus, situating individuals within broader community social structures - has been neglected within criminology. In this article, we discuss and test a model that links community structural characteristics to several individual expectations and preferences relevant to crime. Using data from the Pathways to Desistance study, we find that objective levels of neighborhood concentrated disadvantage influence individuals’ perceptions of, and preferences for, the risks, costs, and rewards associated with offending indirectly by affecting perceived disorder and perceived opportunities for legitimate avenues of success within one's neighborhood. The implications of a multilevel rational choice model of offending are discussed.
K1 Crime
K1 Expectations
K1 neighborhood characteristics
K1 preferences
K1 Rational Choice
DO 10.1111/1745-9125.12314