Heidensohn's control theory of women and crime
Heidensohn argues that women are more controlled than men (family, school, media) and these controls prevent criminality; women's lower crime rates reflect greater social control, not moral superiority.
Real World
Research showing teenage girls face stricter curfews, more parental monitoring, and stronger expectations around 'reputation' than their brothers — common in many UK households — directly supports Heidensohn's argument that gendered social control, not innate compliance, explains women's lower offending rates.
Exam Focus
When evaluating, use Adler's liberation thesis as a counterpoint — rising female crime rates as controls loosen supports Heidensohn's logic.
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