Sociology & Criminology for a Changing World
The process of defining and enforcing behaviors as criminal.
Criminalization refers to how certain acts, people, or groups are defined as criminal through laws, policing, and social norms. It reflects power relations and can target marginalized populations, enforcing social control. Examples include the War on Drugs, anti-homeless laws, and the policing of migration.
Labeling Theory, Critical Criminology, Social Control
SozTheo is a personal academic project by Prof. Dr. Christian Wickert.
The content does not reflect the official views or curricula of HSPV NRW.
SozTheo.com offers clear, accessible introductions to sociology and criminology. Covering key theories, classic works, and essential concepts, it is designed for students, educators, and anyone curious about social science and crime. Discover easy-to-understand explanations and critical perspectives on the social world.
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