Citation

Kammigan I, Linssen R. Monatssc. Kriminol. Strafrechtsreform 2012; 95(5): 331-347.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

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Abstract

This theoretical article aims to explain corruptive behaviour by using Situational Action Theory (SAT), a recently developed general approach to the explanation of crime that combines personal and situational factors. However, rational choice approaches are frequently used to explain corruptive behaviour; therefore, we inspect the compatibility of SAT with the key assumptions of Rational Choice Theory. Furthermore, we examine how neutralization techniques and Institutional-Anomie Theory can be integrated into the theoretical framework of SAT. While neutralization is said to weaken the moral constraints of the actor, and thus facilitate the commission of corruptive acts, Institutional-Anomie Theory can help to reveal the society-level causes of corruption, particularly the influence of a society's capitalist market orientation. Neutralization techniques, as well as Institutional-Anomie Theory, can be linked to SAT by the element of moral rules, which play a central role in all of the three theories. The concept of integrating the key ideas of both SAT and Institutional-Anomie Theory into a common framework is approved by their respective authors. We conclude that SAT in itself, as well as combined with other criminological approaches, can add to a better understanding of corruption and serve as a theoretical basis for further empirical research in the area. KW: Juvenile justice; Juvenile delinquency;

Language: de