An Introduction to Life-Course Criminology [Paperback]

Most people engage in crime at some point in their lives, but why does almost everybody stop soon after? And, why do a small number of offenders persist in crime? These two questions constitute the core of the field often known as life-course criminology.

This book provides a comprehensive introduction to life-course criminology. It covers the dominant theories and methodologies in the field and equips you with all you need to succeed in your studies on the subject.  The book:

• Discusses the methodologies of life-course and longitudinal research
• Explains and critiques the major theories of life-course criminology
• Considers the issues of risk, prediction, onset, persistence and desistance of criminal activity
• Draws on research from studies in Europe, the UK, US and Australia, including the Stockholm Life-Course Project

Written by two leading figures in the field, this is an authoritative text that will guide you through your studies in life-course criminology, criminal career research, and developmental criminology.

Drawing on the research and data from the Stockholm Life-Course Project, this exciting new text covers the key theories and methodologies in the field to provide readers with an authoritative guide 

This is an excellent introduction to a topic of central importance for criminologists.  It has the merit of being very clearly written, and the authors cover a wide range of materials – theories and data; European and American research; quantitative l½