Chapter Questions
What is the "dark figure" of crime, and what measures have been developed to address this biased description of crimes in the United States?
Explain why some critics of the UCR data argue that the Part I/Index offenses do not accurately reflect the true amount or distribution of crime in the United States.
Discuss the relative strengths and weaknesses of the UCR as an indicator of crime in the United States.
It is silly to think that people will actually tell the truth to researchers who conduct self-report studies. Do you agree or disagree with statement? Why or why not?
Comparative studies of the causes of crime can be insightful but at the same time difficult to implement. What can be learned from comparative studies, and what are some of the difficulties associated with conducting cross-national research?
Victimization studies provide an alternative view of crime in society. Describe the NCVS and identify the types of information this survey provides that is not available in the UCR.