A focal point of academic inquiry : Đề thi thật IELTS READING (IELTS Reading Recent Actual Test)

A focal point of academic inquiry

Crime has long been a focal point of academic inquiry, due to its profound implications for societal well-being and individual rights. The investigation into the underlying causes of criminal behavior has evolved from simplistic attributions to the recognition of a multifaceted and intricate array of factors. Among the most widely discussed are the socioeconomic and psychological drivers, both of which interact in complex ways to perpetuate criminality. This essay seeks to explore these interrelated factors, scrutinizing the intricate interplay between poverty, social inequality, and psychological pathology, and how they contribute to the perpetuation of crime within society.

The socioeconomic determinants of crime have been the subject of extensive research, with a growing body of evidence suggesting that poverty, lack of education, and unemployment are crucial in influencing criminal behavior. One of the most compelling arguments in criminological literature is that individuals from impoverished backgrounds, particularly those who experience chronic deprivation, are more likely to engage in criminal activity. Theories such as strain theory, proposed by Robert Merton, assert that crime arises as a response to the inability to achieve socially approved goals through legitimate means. For instance, an individual who is unable to obtain wealth through legal channels may resort to illicit activities such as theft or drug trafficking as a means of attaining financial stability. The argument is further bolstered by the concept of relative deprivation, which posits that individuals who perceive themselves as being less fortunate than their peers are more inclined to resort to crime as a means of restoring their perceived social status.

Moreover, social inequality exacerbates the propensity for criminal behavior. Communities characterized by stark disparities in wealth and opportunity often experience higher rates of crime, particularly violent crime. This is because inequality fosters a sense of resentment and alienation among disadvantaged individuals, which can manifest in criminal actions. The emergence of gang cultures in economically deprived areas is one example of how social inequality can lead to criminal behavior. In such contexts, gangs often offer a sense of identity, protection, and economic opportunity that is otherwise unattainable through conventional means.>> Form đăng kí giải đề thi thật IELTS 4 kĩ năng kèm bài giải bộ đề 100 đề PART 2 IELTS SPEAKING quý đang thi (update hàng tuần) từ IELTS TUTOR

However, while socioeconomic factors undoubtedly play a significant role, psychological factors cannot be overlooked in understanding criminal behavior. Psychological theories emphasize the individual's mental state, personality traits, and cognitive patterns as significant contributors to criminal actions. For instance, individuals with antisocial personality disorder or conduct disorder are more likely to engage in criminal acts due to their inherent lack of empathy, disregard for social norms, and impulsive tendencies. Furthermore, psychological theories such as the social learning theory by Albert Bandura suggest that criminal behavior is learned through interactions with others, particularly in environments where deviant behavior is normalized.

The concept of criminal thinking, as elucidated by psychologists such as Yochelson and Samenow, further explores the cognitive distortions that contribute to criminal conduct. According to their research, criminals often harbor rationalizations that justify their actions, thereby reducing the psychological distress associated with their behavior. This cognitive dissonance enables them to view their criminal acts as acceptable or even necessary, regardless of the harm caused to others. Such distortions are often deeply ingrained and resistant to change, posing a significant challenge to rehabilitation efforts.

The intersection of socioeconomic and psychological factors creates a complex web of causality that is difficult to disentangle. For example, individuals living in impoverished environments may be more vulnerable to developing mental health issues due to the chronic stress associated with financial instability. Conversely, those suffering from psychological disorders may find themselves trapped in cycles of poverty and crime, unable to break free due to a lack of access to resources or support. Thus, crime cannot be attributed to a single factor but must be understood as the result of a confluence of social, economic, and psychological variables.
In conclusion, crime is not merely a product of individual failings or moral weakness; rather, it is the outcome of a complex interaction between socioeconomic deprivation and psychological pathology. Addressing the root causes of criminal behavior requires a holistic approach that considers both the external social conditions and the internal psychological processes that contribute to deviance. Policymakers must therefore adopt multifaceted strategies that not only address the structural inequalities within society but also provide support for individuals suffering from mental health issues. Only through such comprehensive efforts can crime be effectively mitigated and societal harmony restored.
 

Questions 28–33
IELTS
Do the following statements agree with the information given in the passage?
In boxes 28–33 on your answer sheet, write:

• YES if the statement agrees with the information.
• NO if the statement contradicts the information.
• NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this.

1. The passage claims that criminal behavior is purely an individual choice resulting from moral failings.
2. Gangs naturally emerge in deprived areas as a response to economic inequality.
3. Relative deprivation refers to the frustration people experience when they cannot attain the same status as wealthier peers.
4. According to the strain theory, individuals from affluent backgrounds are less likely to commit crimes.
5. Psychological disorders might hinder individuals from overcoming financial hardship.
6. Social inequality always leads to violent criminal behavior in every situation.

Questions 34–36
Complete the sentences below using words or phrases from the passage.
Write your answers in boxes 34–36 on your answer sheet.

1. According to Robert Merton's strain theory, crime can occur when individuals are unable to achieve socially accepted goals through ________ means.
2. Psychological theories emphasize the role of an individual’s ________ and mental ________ in determining their likelihood of engaging in criminal activities.
3. The theory of ________ suggests that crime arises as a response to perceived disparities in wealth and social status.

Questions 37–40
Choose the correct letter A, B, C, or D.
Write your answers in boxes 37–40 on your answer sheet.

1. Which statement best describes the author’s view of crime in relation to social and psychological factors?
   A. Crime is solely caused by psychological factors such as personality disorders.
   B. Socioeconomic deprivation has no significant effect on crime rates in disadvantaged communities.
   C. Both social and psychological factors interact to create a complex cause for criminal behavior.
   D. Psychological factors are less influential than social inequality in causing criminal behavior.

2. What is identified as a significant barrier to criminal rehabilitation in the passage?
   A. Cognitive distortions that allow criminals to justify their actions.
   B. The lack of legal deterrents to criminal behavior.
   C. The absence of effective social policies in impoverished areas.
   D. The failure of psychological treatments in criminal rehabilitation.>> IELTS TUTOR có hướng dẫn kĩ PHÂN TÍCH ĐỀ THI THẬT TASK 2 (dạng advantages & disadvantages) NGÀY 04/8/2020 IELTS WRITING GENERAL MÁY TÍNH (kèm bài được sửa hs đi thi)

3. What is the most likely outcome for individuals who are both mentally ill and impoverished, according to the passage?
   A. They will eventually escape their condition through social welfare programs.
   B. They will remain trapped in cycles of poverty and crime.
   C. They will experience a sudden improvement in their social standing.
   D. They will resort to illegal activities as a form of self-empowerment.

4. What does the author suggest policymakers should focus on to address crime?
   A. Exclusively addressing mental health issues among criminals.
   B. Prioritizing social reform by improving economic conditions.
   C. Implementing broad reforms to tackle both psychological and social causes of crime.
   D. Adopting punitive measures against offenders to deter criminal behavior.

28. NO 33. NO 37. C 29. NOT GIVEN 34. legitimate 38. A 30. YES 35. personality traits 39. B 31. YES 36. relative 40. C deprivation 32. YES