Routine Activity Theory

ROUTINE ACTIVITY THEORY.

Developed by Lawrence Cohen and Marcus Felson during the late 1970s, routine activity theory is a criminological theory frequently used to explain crime and victimization. Routine activity theory is actually an outgrowth of another criminological theory rational choice. Rational choice theory assumes that the offender chooses to commit criminal activity based upon free-will. In other words, the offender uses a strategic thinking process to evaluate the risks, including the type of offense committed, the selection of the victim, and the chances of apprehension. If the rewards of committing the crime outweigh the consequences of apprehension, the offender will likely commit the criminal act. According to Cohen and Felson, crime and victimization is based upon three criteria: (1) a suitable target, (2) an absence of capable guardians, and (3) a motivated offender. Each of these variables will be explained as they relate to the victims actions and prevention strategies. A suitable target can be a person or object. Offenders select their targets