74927 - Sociology of Deviance and Criminology

Learning outcomes

The educational objective of the course is to provide a conceptual introduction to the sociological study of deviance, useful for better understanding the changes that have taken place within contemporary culture, with particular reference to the analysis of criminal phenomena. In this perspective, the contribution provided by the main criminological theories will be decisive, through a course that will illustrate their formation and subsequent transformation in different eras and contexts. Knowledge of these theoretical contributions will provide students with the cultural background necessary for the critical evaluation of the evolution of crime and deviance. At the end of the course, students will: - know the fundamental concepts of criminology with reference to the main theories; - know the tools for analyzing criminal phenomena and the general investigative techniques and strategies, including for the protection of victims; - know the tools for understanding the dynamics of criminal behavior and the relationship between mental illness and criminal behavior; - possess victimological knowledge focusing on the effects of crime on victims and the most appropriate methods for reducing them, focusing on the importance, for those involved in victim support in various capacities, of the ability to build relationships and interpret reality in a critical and innovative way.

Course contents

The course aims to analyze the main contributions in the field of sociology of deviance and criminology, paying particular attention to sanctioning processes and those that influence adherence to deviant behavior by individuals within a given social context. Particular attention will be paid to the issue of so-called “youth gangs,” i.e., social groups of young people, even when deviant or criminal behavior occurs.

The course will take place during the SECOND SEMESTER

Readings/Bibliography

For the exam to be prepared:

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

2) S. Crocitti, R. Selmini, Bande e gruppi giovanili di strada. Prospettive teoriche, approcci interdisciplinari e ricerca empirica, Franco Angeli, Milano, 2025

3)G. Di Gennaro, M.L. Iavarone, Ragazzi che sparano. Viaggio nella devianza grave minorile, Franco Angeli, Milano, 2023

4) C. Volpato, Deumanizzazione. Come si legittima la violenza, Laterza, Roma-Bari, 2011

 

FOR THE ERASMUS/OVERSEAS STUDENTS ONLY:

- F. P. Williams, M.D. McShane, Criminological Theory, Pearson College Div. 2017, 7 ed.

- G. M. Sykes, D. Matza, Techniques of Neutralization: A Theory of Delinquency, American Sociological ReviewVol. 22, No. 6 (Dec., 1957) [https://www.jstor.org/stable/i336385]

- N. Christie, Victim movements at a crossroad, Punishment and Society, 12/2

Teaching methods

Lectures, classroom discussions, documentary film screenings, guest speakers on specific topics

Assessment methods

The exam is oral, for attending and not attending students

Teaching tools

power point, articles on the Virtuale platform

Office hours

See the website of Susanna Vezzadini