Select a criminological theory from any of the theories that you have learned about this semester (see list below). You should select the theory you believe is the most valid explanation of criminal behavior from the list below. Answer the following prompts in your paper. You should use the prompts as subheadings in your paper.
Introduction to Paper – In a clear thesis statement identify one theory covered in class that you believe is the most valid explanation for criminal behavior. 
What are the main theoretical assumptions of the theory? 
Discuss the history of the development of the theory.
Has the theory been empirically supported? Cite three to five empirical peer-reviewed journal articles that have tested the theory, and be sure to report the findings of these studies.
What policies could be implemented if the theory were to be adopted by the criminal justice system?
Explain in detail why you think this theory does the best job of explaining criminal behavior.  Be sure to support your argument with the theoretical assumptions, historical development, empirical support, and policy implications of the theory. 
Theory Options
Deterrence Theory
Rational Choice Theory
Routine Activities Theory
Biosocial Explanations
IQ Explanations
Mental Illness/Disorders/Deficiencies Explanations
Merton’s Anomie/Strain Theory
Cohen’s Theory of Lower Class Status Frustration
Cloward and Ohlin’s Differential Opportunity Theory
Agnew’s General Strain Theory
Social Disorganization Theory
Subculture of Violence Theory
Focal Concerns Theory
The Code of the Streets
Social Learning Theory
Social Bonds Theory
Neutralization Theory
General Theory of Crime
Moffitt’s Developmental Taxonomy
Sampson & Laub’s Age Graded Social Bond Theory
Thornberry’s Interactional Theory
Labeling Theory
Braithwaite’s Reintegrative Shaming Theory
Conflict Theory
Feminist Theory
Formatting Instructions
Microsoft Word .doc or docx
Include Cover Page
1500 to 2000 words (excluding title page and reference page)
Times New Roman Font
12 Point Font
Double Spaced
1”inch margins all around
Grammar & Presentation Instructions:
Should contain headings as per APA formatting style
Should not contain colloquialism and contractions
Should be coherent 
Should be written in proper grammar, 
Include proper in text and references in APA style 
A minimum of 3 empirical peer reviewed journal articles testing the theory is required.