RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN POVERTY AND CRIMINAL BEHAVIOUR

Author – Rishika Khemka, STUDENT AT SYMBIOSIS LAW SCHOOL, NAGPUR

Best Citation – Rishika Khemka, RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN POVERTY AND CRIMINAL BEHAVIOUR, INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CRIMINAL JURISPRUDENCE, 1 (1) of 2023, Pg. 50-56, ISBN – 978-81-960677-6-2.

ABSTRACT

Poverty and criminal behaviour have been shown to be intricately linked. Research has consistently shown that individuals who grow up in impoverished communities are more likely to engage in criminal behaviour than those who do not. This relationship is further complicated by the fact that poverty can contribute to a range of other risk factors for criminal behaviour, such as substance abuse, poor mental health, and lack of access to education and employment opportunities. While poverty alone does not cause criminal behaviour, it is a significant contributing factor that must be addressed if we are to effectively reduce crime rates and improve social outcomes for individuals and communities impacted by poverty. Policymakers and practitioners must work together to implement evidence-based strategies that address the root causes of poverty and provide individuals with the resources and support they need to succeed. Despite these debates, there is a growing consensus that reducing poverty is an important strategy for preventing crime. Addressing poverty through policies such as providing job opportunities, improving access to education, and addressing social inequalities may help to reduce crime rates in impoverished communities. Overall, the relationship between poverty and criminal behaviour is complex and multifaceted.

Keywords: Poverty, Mental Health, Abuse, Criminal Behaviour, Inequalities