The gender gap in rates of offending is closing. Critically evaluate Essay

The gender gap in rates of offending is closing. Critically evaluate this statement - Essay Example It is therefore easy to note a difference in the rate of offending between genders. Further it has been suggested that as a result of liberation of women, crimes that were mostly perpetrated by men are now committed by women (Rennison, 2009). This observation is said to be true in urban areas as opposed to rural; developed countries as opposed to developing countries and in races where the level of equality between men and women is high (Chesney-Lind, 2004). In countries such as England statistics show fewer female offending (Office for National Statistics, 2004). There are various theories advanced to explain this phenomenon. To a greater extend the reasons fit traditional theories on crime. Nevertheless, due to relationships, background and upbringing women find themselves in criminal activities. For example a girl who has a boyfriend trafficking drugs or in violent crime may find herself in the same situation (Chesney-Lind, 2002). It also applies to a wife who husband is a gang me mber. The former may get involved in crime for emotional and relational reasons (Chesney-Lind, 2004). In addition women in abusive relationships are more likely to commit violent crimes. Most cases of homicide originate from abusive relationships (Miller, 2001). â€Å"Crimes of a passion† are no different. These among other similar crimes are committed in developed countries where there is greater accessibility to weapons. The issue of whether or not the gap is closing is debatable. However according to official statistics the rate of female offending has increased in minor crimes (Merolla, 2008). Men however continue to dominate in all serious crimes (Steffensmeier D., et al., 2006). According to traditional theories the level of offence is less in women compared to men due to a number of reasons. First, learning theories allege that females are not so much exposed to the dictates of their peers (Barry, 2007). They are rarely influenced by