Sociology key terms

Sociology key terms

How are Criminals Punished in England and Wales?

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In England and Wales, sentencing for criminal offenses takes place in magistrates or crown courts, considering factors like the seriousness of the offense, the defendant’s plea, character, and criminal record. Punishments range from discharges for minor offenses (2%) to fines (80%), community sentences (7%), and custodial sentences for the most serious crimes (11%). Judgments may also include disposal orders and ancillary orders.

Sociology key terms

Police and Policing in the U.K. 

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Policing, meant to maintain order, is performed by both police and other agencies such as private security firms. It includes functions like crime control, emergency response, and social service. Policing pervades various areas, from local to international levels, and incorporates strategies like community and problem-oriented policing. However, policing faces issues like subculture influences and unequal attention towards different societal groups. Recent years have seen efforts to reform procedures and introduce technology for more efficient policing. The rise of private security firms reflects the growing pluralization in the field.

Sociology key terms

Mobile phones and social identity

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Rich Ling’s research in Norway between 1997 and 2000 revealed the rise of mobile phones as symbols of identity among teenagers. Initially deemed vulgar and tied to yuppie culture, by 2000 nearly all teenagers owned them, with the model and manner of display reflecting individual and group identity. Ling’s findings suggest that phone choice and presentation is influenced by peer group pressures and are valuable for studying postmodern theories of identity.

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