Question

In criminological literature, 'Recidivism' implies:

• A. The radical approach by criminologists who believe that human nature by itself is not criminal
• B. The tendency of under-trials to show an innocent face so that they are released
• C. The habit of relapsing into crime by the offenders
• D. The tendency of under-trials who are falsely charged to actually commit the crime for which they are imprisoned.

Hint:

Break down the word: "re-" means "back" or "again," and "cid" comes from the Latin "cadere," meaning "to fall." So, recidivism literally means "to fall back" into crime. This can help you remember its meaning.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Defining Recidivism:
Recidivism, a key term in criminology, describes a person's return to criminal activity after facing penalties or rehabilitation for a prior offense. It gauges the success of rehabilitation and deterrence.
Step 2: Option Analysis:
Let's evaluate the choices:
(A) This option pertains to a criminological philosophical viewpoint, not recidivism.
(B) This describes an accused person's deceitful actions, not reoffending.
(C) This is the correct definition of recidivism: an offender committing a new crime after punishment or treatment for a previous one, indicating a return to criminal behavior.
(D) This option refers to a psychological concept or a particular behavior, but it does not define recidivism.
Step 3: Conclusion:
Recidivism specifically means offenders returning to crime after involvement with the justice system.