Forensic Psychology For Dummies (59 page)

Staying close to home

 

Routine activity theory
is a common idea in criminology, and means that criminals often choose their crime locations from places in which they’re routinely located: on the way to work, near the pubs they use and so on. They’re thought to see the opportunities for crime when going about their non-criminal activities. Although this idea has a lot to recommend it, from a psychologist’s point of view it’s the familiarity they have with an area that’s crucial. This familiarity can even come from other sources such as maps or even criminal colleagues.

In addition, of course, habitual criminals may seek out areas beyond where they’re based in order to find opportunities for crime. One burglar interviewed had been stealing golfing equipment from golf clubs around the UK. When asked how he knew where to go, he said that he simply used maps for golf enthusiasts (that show where all the golfing establishments are) to find opportunities for thieving.