Problem-solving criminology: Proposal for a new discipline

• In Event: Theoretical and Epistemological debates in Criminology

Abstract

Ideally, developing interventions or strategies to prevent or hinder crime is framed by a problem-solving approach that involves cycles of design and evaluation in which (alternative) solutions are proposed, selected, and improved. During the design stage, problem-solving criminologists draw upon up-to-date and resounding scientific literature to propose program theories that rationally align objectives and actions to serve a purpose (solve crime). In this regard, basic research produced in universities and research centres needs to be ‘translated’ in ways that make it possible to apply its findings in the field.
Designing effective solutions for crime problems is a process analogue to product development, and the field relies on an epistemological framework placed on the intersection of design science, social science, and behavioral science. If we search for a preventive solution, then relying upon the field of prevention science may, eventually, be necessary. Likewise, police science and penology may assist in the design/development stage of interventions that use policing or criminal justice knowledge. We present the epistemological framework of the problem-solving criminology new discipline using violent extremism and organized crime prevention examples.

Author

• teresa silva, Mid Sweden University