CRI20003 Crime, Deviance and Conformity Assignment 1 - Essay
Psychology and Community Service
31st Jul 2025
2
Due: Aug 8 by 5pm
Points: 100
Submitting a file upload
Word/time limit: 1000 words (+/- 10%)
Weighting: 30%
Due date: 5pm AEST Friday 8 August 2025 (Week 5)
Individual/team task: Individual
Teaching Period 2, 2025
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Assignment Details
In this assignment, you will delve into the theories of deviance and apply them to real-life topics. In the first few weeks of this unit, we have explored various theories including individualist, sociological, and social-psychological theories of deviance. By analysing social issues through different theoretical lenses, you will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding deviance and associated societal processes.
This assignment supports unit learning outcomes 1, 2, 3 and 4.
Use the following steps to get started in your assignment.
Step 1: Select a deviant behaviour
Choose ONE of the following deviant behaviours that have emerged due to technological advancements:
▢ cyberbullying
▢ identity theft
▢ digital piracy
▢ online radicalisation
▢ phishing and similar behaviours.
Step 2: Compose your essay
Select TWO theories of deviance from the learning materials. Compose an essay comparing the two theories in their explanations of the causes, processes, effects, and implications of your chosen deviant behaviour.
Discuss each theory's insights, analyse their strengths and limitations, and determine which theory you find more compelling. The essay needs to offer adequate context to the selected deviance, explore its significance, and discuss the role of technology.
Step 3: Referencing
You must cite at least six academic sources (academic references refer to peer-reviewed sources such as books, book chapters and journal articles). In addition to the six academic sources, you could cite non-academic but reputable sources such as government websites or reports from international organisations.
Include a reference list (referenced following APA 7th edition). Review the American Psychological Association (APA) style guide for more information on how to reference correctly. You can also use the Referencing tool to help you.