The authors argue that a proper understanding of the spatial aspects of offenses and offending is possible only through the use of a model that is capable of including the natural and built environment; the political, economic, social, and cultural contexts and structures of areas; and the actions of individuals and corporate bodies within areas. Further, this must be done within a theory that accounts for the ongoing processes of interaction between these factors. The authors use Giddens' "structuration" theory because they believe it offers such a framework. They show how the elements of this approach can illuminate current work within environmental criminology. If, as Giddens suggests, our sense of location is a key aspect of our social existence and is a product of our experience and interaction within space/time, then the sense of location of many modern people is likely to be significantly changed under the rapid transformation of environments. The appropriateness of place to lifestyle, including the criminal, and to life experiences, including victimization, will also change. It is crucial, say the authors, that we should have an adequate model for understanding these processes and their criminological consequences. 5 notes and 31 references