B9060 - Introduction to Criminology and Social Control

Learning outcomes

The course aims to provide introductory knowledge in criminology, in relation to the basic concepts, main theoretical approaches and empirical research methods (quantitative and qualitative methodologies). In particular, by the end of the course, the student - is able to define deviance, crime and social control; - is familiar with the main theories explaining criminal phenomena and forms of social and criminal control; - knows the research methodologies on crime, and their strengths and limitations; - knows how to apply theories and empirical methods to the study of crime and social and criminal control.

Course contents

The course explores the concepts of deviance, crime and social control, analyzing different forms of deviance and crime, different deviant and criminal behaviors, and policies and models of social and punitive controls of criminal phenomena.
In addition, the main socio-criminological theories explaining crime and control will be outlined, following their evolution from a historical perspective.
Finally, social research methodologies (both quantitative and qualitative methods) applied to deviance, crime and control will be analyzed, highlighting their strengths and limitations.
During the course, research projects carried out on specific topics - concerning deviance, crime and (social and punitive) control - will be discussed as examples of how theories and methodologies are applied to the study of given phenomena.

Readings/Bibliography

The examination program includes the study of the two following books:

1) Franco Prina (2019), Devianza e criminalità. Concetti, metodi di ricerca, cause, politiche, Carocci editore, Roma.

2) A book of the students' choice from following books:

- Norbert Elias, John L. Scotson (2004), Strategie dell’esclusione, Il Mulino (Ed. orig. 1965)

- Albert Cohen (2023), Ragazzi delinquenti: La cultura delle gang, a cura di E. Petrilli, G. Tramontano e V. Verdolini, PM Edizioni (Ed. orig. 1955)

- Stefania Crocitti (2025), Giovani e devianza. Analisi dei gruppi disordinati e delinquenti, PM Edizioni

Teaching methods

Lectures; class discussions, including group activities; lectures by guest speakers.
The teaching method is highly interactive; for this, attendance is strongly recommended.

Assessment methods

Oral examination.
The assessment will be aimed at verifying the following objectives:
- knowledge of the concepts of deviance, crime and social control;
- knowledge of the key concepts of the main theories of sociology of deviance and punishment;
- knowledge of different research methodologies in the field of socio-criminology;
- ability to apply theories and methodologies to the study of crime and of the mechanisms of social and penal control;
- ability to develop critical arguments;
- use of an appropriate socio-criminological language.

The grade will be derived from the evaluation criteria mentioned above, in accordance with the following scale:
a) Knowledge of a limited number of topics covered in the course, analytical skills evident only with the lecturer’s assistance, expression in correct language → mark 18–19;
b) Knowledge of a limited number of topics covered in the course, limited ability to analyse independently, expression in correct language → mark 20–24;
c) Knowledge of a wide range of topics covered in the course, ability to make independent critical analyses, mastery of specific terminology → mark 25–29;
d) Comprehensive preparation on the topics covered in the course, ability to make independent critical analyses and draw connections, full command of specific terminology, ability to argue a case and engage in self-reflection → mark 30–30Lode.

Teaching tools

Power Point; papers written by the teacher for group activities.

Office hours

See the website of Stefania Crocitti