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Feminist Theory and Alienation: Explaining Female Crime

NCJ Number
174968
Journal
Caribbean Journal of Criminology and Social Psychology Volume: 2 Issue: 1 Dated: January 1997 Pages: 1-12
Author(s)
J H Henderson; N R Pearl
Date Published
1997
Length
12 pages
Annotation
Feminist theory is making its presence felt in current sociological and criminological thought, and the integration of feminist theory into the knowledge base of sociological and criminological academic pursuits is discussed.
Abstract
The institutionalization of feminist theory and methodology in sociology and criminology is evident in publications, research papers, and professional discussions. The work in this area consistently emphasizes several points: (1) feminist theory and methodology are not unidimensional; (2) the feminist perspective provides a foundation for several academic and practical endeavors related to such areas as victimization of women, power inequalities, and state control of women's lives; and (3) feminist theory and methodology cannot be separated from sociology and criminology and must be thought of as an integral part of the cumulative process that occurs in building disciplines. Classical work on alienation is tied to the emerging feminist perspective, and this tie is used to explain some types of criminality, particularly crimes committed primarily by women. A summary of feminist theory is presented, with emphasis on the concept of alienation, and examples are presented of how feminist theory and alienation may be applicable to understanding female crime. The examples include prostitution and women who kill their abusive partners. 20 references