research paper in criminal justice

Criminal Justice Research Paper Topics

This page provides a comprehensive list of criminal justice research paper topics categorized into different areas such as criminology, types of crime, correlates of crime, theories of crime, criminal justice system, criminal justice process, criminal justice ethics, criminal justice administration, criminal law, criminal procedure, criminal investigation, criminal behavior, criminal psychology, juvenile justice, juvenile delinquency, death penalty, and gender and crime. Each category includes 10 unique topics, offering students an ample selection of research paper ideas. Additionally, this page provides expert advice on choosing a research topic and writing a criminal justice research paper, as well as an overview of iResearchNet’s writing services for students seeking custom research paper assistance.

Criminal Justice Reseach Field

Criminal justice is an interdisciplinary field that involves the study of crime, law, and justice. It encompasses a range of topics such as criminology, criminal law, law enforcement, and the criminal justice system. As a student studying criminal justice, you may be required to write a research paper on a specific topic within this field. However, choosing a topic can be challenging, as the field is vast and encompasses various subfields. In this guide, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of criminal justice research paper topics, expert advice on how to choose a topic, and tips on how to write an effective research paper.

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In this guide, we aim to provide you with a comprehensive list of criminal justice research paper topics, divided into several categories, to help you select a topic that interests you and aligns with your research interests. We also offer expert advice on how to choose a topic, conduct research, and write an effective research paper. Our goal is to help you succeed in your academic pursuits and make a meaningful contribution to the field of criminal justice.

100+ Criminal Justice Research Paper Topics

Criminal justice is a multifaceted field that encompasses various aspects of crime and punishment. As a student of criminal justice, it is crucial to choose a research paper topic that not only interests you but also provides ample room for exploration and analysis. In this section, we have compiled a comprehensive list of criminal justice research paper topics categorized into various themes. These categories are designed to help you navigate the vast field of criminal justice research and narrow down your options to a more manageable and focused list of topics. Whether you are interested in criminology, types of crime, theories of crime, criminal justice system, or other related topics, you are sure to find a suitable topic that will spark your curiosity and enhance your knowledge of the criminal justice field.

Criminology

• Theoretical Perspectives on Crime: An Analysis of Social Disorganization Theory
• The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Criminal Behavior
• The Relationship between Substance Abuse and Crime
• The Effectiveness of Rehabilitation Programs in Reducing Recidivism
• The Role of Genetics in Criminal Behavior: A Critical Analysis
• The Relationship between Education and Crime: An Empirical Investigation
• The Intersection of Race, Ethnicity and Crime: A Critical Review
• The Use of Restorative Justice in Reducing Crime: An International Comparison
• The Impact of Mass Media on Perceptions of Crime and Criminal Behavior
• The Relationship between Poverty and Crime: An Empirical Analysis

Types of Crime

• Hate Crimes
• Drug-Related Crimes
• Human Trafficking
• Organized Crime
• White-Collar Crime
• Sexual Crimes
• Domestic Violence
• Murder and Homicide
• Property Crimes

Correlates of Crime

• Poverty and Crime
• Mental Illness and Criminal Behavior
• The Impact of Substance Abuse on Crime
• Demographic Factors and Criminal Behavior: Race, Gender, and Age
• Educational Attainment and Criminal Behavior
• Religion and Crime
• Family Background and Crime
• Employment and Crime
• Neighborhood Characteristics and Crime
• Immigration and Crime

Theories of Crime

• Social Disorganization Theory: An Analysis of Neighborhood Crime Rates
• Rational Choice Theory and Criminal Behavior
• An Examination of the Classical School of Criminology
• Social Learning Theory and Juvenile Delinquency
• An Analysis of Strain Theory and Its Implications for Criminal Justice Policy
• The Role of Genetics in Criminal Behavior
• A Comparison of Conflict Theory and Consensus Theory in Criminology
• Psychological Theories of Criminal Behavior: An Overview
• A Critical Analysis of the Labeling Theory and Its Contributions to Criminology
• Marxist Criminology and Its Implications for Criminal Justice Policy

Measurement and Research in Criminology

• The use of survey research in criminology
• Experimental designs in criminology research
• The role of case studies in criminology research
• Analyzing archival data in criminology research
• Qualitative research methods in criminology
• Quantitative research methods in criminology
• Use of randomized control trials in criminology research
• Measuring crime and victimization rates
• Analyzing crime patterns and trends
• The use of GIS (geographic information system) in criminology research

Criminal Justice System

• The impact of privatization on the criminal justice system
• Police misconduct and accountability in the criminal justice system
• The role of prosecutors in the criminal justice system
• The impact of technology on the criminal justice system
• The effectiveness of community policing in the criminal justice system
• The role of plea bargaining in the criminal justice system
• The role of judges in the criminal justice system
• The impact of mass incarceration on the criminal justice system
• The role of the media in shaping public perception of the criminal justice system
• The role of restorative justice in the criminal justice system

Criminal Justice Process

• Bail and Pretrial Release: A Study of its Effects on the Criminal Justice Process
• Plea Bargaining: Advantages and Disadvantages for Defendants and the Criminal Justice System
• Sentencing Disparities among Minority Groups in the Criminal Justice System
• The Role of Prosecutors in the Criminal Justice Process
• Jury Selection: Challenges and Solutions
• The Impact of Victim Impact Statements on the Criminal Justice Process
• The Use of Forensic Evidence in the Criminal Justice System
• The Role of Defense Attorneys in the Criminal Justice Process
• The Criminal Appeals Process: Procedures and Outcomes
• The Role of Probation and Parole Officers in the Criminal Justice Process

Criminal Justice Ethics

• Ethical Considerations in Criminal Investigations
• The Use of Force By Law Enforcement Officers: Ethical Dilemmas and Solutions
• The Ethics of Plea Bargaining in Criminal Justice
• The Role of Ethics In The Criminal Justice System: A Comparative Analysis of Different Legal Systems
• The Morality of Capital Punishment: Arguments for and Against
• Ethical Issues in Criminal Defense: Conflicts of Interest and the Right to a Fair Trial
• Ethical Issues in Correctional Facilities: Rehabilitation vs. Punishment
• Police Brutality and Accountability: Ethical Implications for Law Enforcement Agencies
• The Ethics of Criminal Profiling: Balancing Effectiveness and Discrimination Concerns
• The Ethics of Surveillance in Criminal Investigations: Privacy, Security, and Civil Liberties Concerns

Criminal Justice Administration

• The Role of Leadership in Law Enforcement Agencies
• The Use of Technology in Criminal Justice Administration
• Private Prisons and Their Impact on Criminal Justice Administration
• The Role of Community Policing in Criminal Justice Administration
• Police Training and Its Effect on Criminal Justice Administration
• Ethics and Leadership in Criminal Justice Administration
• Diversity and Inclusion in Criminal Justice Administration
• The Effect of Budget Cuts on Criminal Justice Administration
• Collaboration and Coordination between Criminal Justice Agencies
• The Role of Public Opinion in Criminal Justice Administration

Criminal Law

• The History and Evolution of Criminal Law
• Comparative Analysis of Criminal Law Systems in Different Countries
• The Role of the Judiciary in Criminal Law Interpretation and Application
• Legal Principles of Criminal Liability and Their Application in Practice
• The Concept of Mens Rea in Criminal Law
• The Limits of Criminal Law in the Regulation Of Conduct
• The Use of Criminal Law to Address Societal Problems
• The Relationship Between Criminal Law and Civil Law
• The Impact of Technology on Criminal Law and Law Enforcement
• Critiques of The Criminal Law System and Proposals for Reform

Criminal Procedure

• The Fourth Amendment and Search and Seizure Law
• The Role of the Grand Jury in Criminal Proceedings
• The Right to a Fair Trial and Due Process Protections
• The Use of Plea Bargaining in Criminal Cases
• The Exclusionary Rule and its Impact on Criminal Cases
• The Role of the Defense Attorney in Criminal Proceedings
• The Admissibility of Evidence in Criminal Trials
• The Impact of the Media on Criminal Trials
• The Use of Expert Witnesses in Criminal Cases
• The Challenges of Prosecuting and Defending Cases Involving DNA Evidence

Criminal Investigation

• The use of DNA evidence in criminal investigations
• The reliability and limitations of eyewitness testimony in criminal investigations
• The role of forensic psychology in criminal investigations
• The use of surveillance technology in criminal investigations
• Investigating cybercrime: challenges and strategies
• The importance of crime scene investigation in solving cases
• The impact of digital evidence on criminal investigations
• The role of informants in criminal investigations
• The use of lie detection technology in criminal investigations
• The effectiveness of polygraph testing in criminal investigations

Criminal Behavior

• The role of genetics in criminal behavior
• The impact of childhood trauma on criminal behavior
• The relationship between substance abuse and criminal behavior
• The influence of peer pressure on criminal behavior
• The impact of poverty and inequality on criminal behavior
• The role of mental illness in criminal behavior
• The relationship between personality disorders and criminal behavior
• The impact of cultural factors on criminal behavior
• The role of social media in criminal behavior
• The impact of the media’s portrayal of crime on public perception and criminal behavior

Criminal Psychology

• The psychology of violent offenders: understanding motivations and triggers
• The relationship between childhood abuse and criminal behavior
• Criminal profiling: its validity and effectiveness in solving crimes
• The psychology of white-collar crime: motives and rationalizations
• The impact of social media on criminal behavior and investigations
• The psychology of false confessions: why innocent people confess to crimes they didn’t commit
• The role of substance abuse in criminal behavior and addiction treatment in the criminal justice system
• The psychology of serial killers: identifying patterns and predicting behavior
• The effects of incarceration on mental health and the rehabilitation of offenders

Juvenile Justice

• The effectiveness of diversion programs in reducing juvenile delinquency
• The use of restorative justice practices in juvenile court cases
• The impact of race and ethnicity on juvenile justice outcomes
• The role of mental health services in juvenile justice systems
• The use of solitary confinement in juvenile detention facilities
• The effectiveness of community-based alternatives to juvenile detention
• The impact of parental involvement on juvenile justice outcomes
• The effects of trauma on juvenile offenders and the role of trauma-informed care
• The relationship between juvenile delinquency and academic achievement
• The effectiveness of juvenile sex offender treatment programs

Juvenile Delinquency

• The impact of poverty and socioeconomic status on juvenile delinquency
• The role of mental health issues in juvenile delinquency
• The relationship between juvenile delinquency and drug abuse
• The impact of family dynamics and structure on juvenile delinquency
• The role of schools and education in preventing juvenile delinquency
• The effectiveness of community-based programs in reducing juvenile delinquency
• The impact of media and technology on juvenile delinquency
• The role of race and ethnicity in the juvenile justice system and delinquency rates
• The impact of neighborhood characteristics on juvenile delinquency
• The effectiveness of early intervention programs for at-risk youth in preventing juvenile delinquency

Death Penalty

• The history of the death penalty and its evolution over time
• Comparative analysis of the use of the death penalty in different countries
• The moral and ethical considerations of the death penalty
• The role of race and socioeconomic status in the administration of the death penalty
• The effectiveness of the death penalty as a deterrent to crime
• The psychological effects of death row and the death penalty on inmates and victims’ families
• The impact of wrongful convictions and exonerations on public trust in the death penalty
• The controversy surrounding lethal injection and other methods of execution
• The role of clemency and commutation in death penalty cases
• Critiques of the death penalty system and proposals for reform

Gender and Crime

• The Gender Gap in Crime Rates: Exploring the Trends and Explanations
• Women in Prison: Gender-Specific Issues and Challenges
• Masculinity and Crime: Exploring the Relationship between Masculinity and Criminal Behavior
• Gendered Violence: Examining the Intersection of Gender and Violence in Criminal Justice
• Female Offenders: Understanding the Causes and Consequences of Women’s Criminal Behavior
• Gender and the Law: Analyzing the Role of Gender in Criminal Justice Policy and Practice
• The Gendered Nature of Victimhood: Examining the Impact of Gender on Victimization and Justice
• Intersectionality and Crime: Understanding How Race, Gender, and Class Interact in Criminal Justice
• Women in Law Enforcement: Challenges and Opportunities for Female Police Officers
• The Gendered Impacts of Criminal Justice Policies: Analyzing the Differential Effects on Men and Women

Browse More Criminal Justice Research Paper Topics:

Choosing criminal justice research paper topics.

Choosing a research paper topic in criminal justice can be a challenging task, but there are several strategies you can use to make the process easier and more effective. The following tips will help you choose a topic that is both interesting and appropriate for your assignment.

• Understand the assignment requirements and guidelines : Before you begin researching and selecting a topic, it is important to understand the assignment requirements and guidelines. Make sure you know the scope, length, and format of the paper, as well as any specific topic restrictions or expectations.
• Consider your personal interests and passions: Selecting a topic that you are interested in or passionate about can make the research and writing process more enjoyable and engaging. Consider your personal experiences, values, and beliefs when choosing a topic.
• Look for current and relevant topics in the field: Choose a topic that is relevant and current in the field of criminal justice. Look for recent research, policy changes, or high-profile cases that have generated public interest and media attention.
• Focus on a specific aspect or issue within a broader topic: Instead of choosing a broad topic, focus on a specific aspect or issue within that topic. This will allow you to explore the topic in depth and provide a more focused and compelling argument.
• Conduct preliminary research to ensure there is enough information available: Before finalizing your topic, conduct preliminary research to ensure there is enough information available to support your argument. Use academic journals, databases, and reliable websites to research your topic and identify potential sources.
• Consult with your instructor or a librarian for topic suggestions and resources: Your instructor or a librarian can provide valuable guidance and resources for selecting a topic. They may be able to suggest specific topics or provide access to relevant databases and sources.
• Stay organized and keep track of sources and notes: As you research and write your paper, make sure to stay organized and keep track of your sources and notes. This will make the writing process easier and ensure you have accurate and reliable information to support your argument.
• Narrow down your topic and develop a thesis statement: Once you have selected a topic, narrow it down to a specific aspect or issue and develop a thesis statement. Your thesis statement should be clear, concise, and specific, and provide a roadmap for the rest of your paper.
• Brainstorm and outline your paper before writing: Before you start writing, brainstorm and outline your paper to ensure your argument is organized and cohesive. This will also help you identify any gaps in your research or arguments.
• Revise and edit your paper multiple times before submitting: After you have completed your paper, revise and edit it multiple times before submitting. This will ensure that your argument is clear, your writing is concise and effective, and your paper is free of errors and typos.

By following these expert tips, you can choose a criminal justice research paper topic that is engaging, relevant, and well-supported. Remember to always keep the assignment guidelines in mind and seek guidance from your instructor or librarian when needed.

How to Write a Criminal Justice Research Paper

Writing a criminal justice research paper requires careful planning and execution to ensure that you produce a high-quality and informative work. Here are some tips on how to write a criminal justice research paper:

• Select a topic and develop a thesis statement : Choose a topic that is interesting and relevant to the criminal justice field. Narrow down your topic and develop a clear thesis statement that outlines your main argument or perspective.
• Conduct thorough research and gather reliable sources : Use academic databases, library catalogs, and credible websites to find sources that support your thesis statement. Ensure that your sources are reliable and relevant to your topic.
• Organize your notes and create an outline : Organize your notes and sources into a logical order that supports your thesis statement. Create an outline that includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• Write an introduction that provides background information and introduces the thesis : Begin your paper with an introduction that provides context for your topic and introduces your thesis statement.
• Use clear and concise language throughout the paper : Write in a clear and concise manner that is easy to understand. Use simple language and avoid jargon and technical terms that may be unfamiliar to your readers.
• Support your arguments with evidence and examples from your research : Use evidence from your research to support your arguments and provide examples that illustrate your points.
• Write a strong conclusion that summarizes your findings and reinforces your thesis : End your paper with a conclusion that summarizes your findings and reinforces your thesis statement.
• Edit and revise your paper for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors : Check your paper for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Use spell-check and grammar-check tools to help you identify and correct errors.
• Properly cite your sources using the appropriate citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) : Use the appropriate citation style to cite your sources in the body of your paper and in your reference list. Follow the guidelines provided by your instructor or institution.
• Get feedback and revise your paper as needed : Share your paper with a peer or instructor and get feedback on your writing. Revise your paper as needed to ensure that it meets the requirements and guidelines of the assignment.

Writing a criminal justice research paper can be a challenging but rewarding experience for students in this field. By choosing a relevant and interesting topic, conducting thorough research, and following a clear and organized structure, students can produce a high-quality paper that showcases their knowledge and critical thinking skills. Seeking expert advice on topic selection and writing techniques can also be beneficial in producing a successful paper. With the right approach and dedication, students can create a valuable contribution to the field of criminal justice research.

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The field of criminal justice is vast and offers numerous research paper topics that students can explore. Writing a research paper in criminal justice requires a deep understanding of the subject matter, and it requires a lot of time and effort. Many students find it challenging to come up with a suitable topic, conduct research, and write a comprehensive research paper. However, with proper guidance and expert help, students can produce high-quality criminal justice research papers.

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Criminal Justice Research Topics

Table of Contents

Criminal justice is a dynamic field that encompasses law enforcement, corrections, legal studies, and forensic science. With its interdisciplinary nature, it addresses societal issues such as crime prevention, the functioning of judicial systems, and rehabilitation of offenders. Research in this area is vital for creating policies and practices that promote justice, equity, and public safety.

Choosing a compelling research topic is crucial for exploring new dimensions of criminal justice. Below is an extensive list of 100+ research topics, categorized for ease of selection, to help students and scholars find inspiration for their academic or professional work.

Criminal Justice Research Topics: Categories

Law enforcement topics.

• The effectiveness of community policing in reducing crime rates.
• Racial profiling: Causes, consequences, and prevention strategies.
• The use of body cameras: Benefits and ethical concerns.
• De-escalation techniques in law enforcement.
• Women in law enforcement: Challenges and contributions.
• Police reform: Strategies for improving public trust.
• The role of technology in modern law enforcement.
• Training for mental health crisis intervention among officers.
• Addressing corruption within law enforcement agencies.
• The use of predictive analytics in policing.

Criminal Behavior and Psychology

• Psychological profiling of serial offenders.
• Juvenile delinquency: Causes and rehabilitation strategies.
• The impact of childhood trauma on criminal behavior.
• Substance abuse and its correlation with crime.
• Mental illness in the criminal justice system.
• The role of peer pressure in youth gang involvement.
• Understanding white-collar crime motivations.
• The connection between poverty and violent crime.
• Sociological perspectives on criminal deviance.
• The impact of media on criminal behavior.

Corrections and Rehabilitation

• The effectiveness of rehabilitation programs in reducing recidivism.
• The role of education in prisoner rehabilitation.
• Solitary confinement: Psychological effects and ethical debates.
• Reentry programs for former inmates.
• Overcrowding in prisons: Causes and solutions.
• Gender-specific needs in correctional facilities.
• Juvenile detention centers: Alternatives to incarceration.
• Drug courts and their effectiveness in addressing substance abuse crimes.
• Privatization of prisons: Pros and cons.
• Correctional officer safety and mental health.

Forensic Science and Investigation

• Advancements in DNA technology for solving cold cases.
• Cybercrime investigations: Challenges and innovations.
• Ballistics analysis in criminal investigations.
• The role of forensic psychology in criminal profiling.
• Facial recognition software in identifying suspects.
• Ethical issues in forensic evidence handling.
• The reliability of eyewitness testimonies.
• Digital forensics in tackling cybercrimes.
• Crime scene reconstruction methods.
• The impact of forensic science on wrongful convictions.

Judicial Processes and Legal Issues

• The effectiveness of plea bargaining in reducing court backlogs.
• The impact of mandatory minimum sentences on justice.
• Restorative justice: Benefits and limitations.
• The role of public defenders in ensuring fair trials.
• The influence of media coverage on jury decisions.
• Prosecutorial discretion and its impact on case outcomes.
• Wrongful convictions: Causes and solutions.
• Juvenile justice system reforms.
• Sentencing disparities based on race or gender.
• The impact of the death penalty on crime deterrence.

Criminology and Crime Trends

• The relationship between unemployment and crime rates.
• Human trafficking: Detection and prevention strategies.
• Hate crimes: Causes and effective legal responses.
• Organized crime: Global trends and countermeasures.
• Domestic violence: Legal frameworks and victim support.
• Financial crimes and their impact on the global economy.
• The role of social media in modern criminal activities.
• The rise of terrorism in the digital age.
• Environmental crimes: Legal and social perspectives.
• School shootings: Causes, prevention, and policy responses.

Ethical and Social Justice Issues

• Police use of excessive force: Policies and prevention.
• The ethics of capital punishment.
• The criminalization of homelessness: Legal and moral dilemmas.
• Immigration laws and their impact on crime rates.
• Racism and inequality in the criminal justice system.
• The treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals in prisons.
• Privacy concerns in mass surveillance for crime prevention.
• Ethical dilemmas in informant use.
• The role of NGOs in advocating for criminal justice reform.
• Ensuring justice for victims of sexual assault.

Juvenile Justice Topics

• Juvenile life sentences: Ethical and legal debates.
• The effectiveness of diversion programs for youth offenders.
• The impact of school-to-prison pipeline policies.
• Cyberbullying and its criminal implications.
• Family structure and its influence on juvenile delinquency.
• Restorative justice in juvenile crime cases.
• The role of mentorship programs in preventing youth crime.
• Peer mediation as an alternative to juvenile detention.
• The effects of labeling theory on young offenders.
• Juvenile access to legal representation: Gaps and reforms.

Emerging Issues in Criminal Justice

• The role of artificial intelligence in crime prevention.
• Cryptocurrency and its use in financial crimes.
• Autonomous vehicles and criminal liability in accidents.
• Biometric security systems: Legal implications.
• Dark web activities and law enforcement challenges.
• Climate change and the rise of environmental crimes.
• Pandemic-related crimes: Fraud and exploitation.
• The influence of virtual reality on criminal behavior.
• Ethical concerns in predictive policing algorithms.
• Social media platforms’ role in countering hate speech.

Global and Comparative Criminal Justice

• Comparative analysis of criminal justice systems worldwide.
• Cross-border collaboration in combating transnational crimes.
• International human rights violations and criminal accountability.
• The effectiveness of the International Criminal Court.
• War crimes and justice in post-conflict societies.
• Cultural differences in restorative justice practices.
• Extradition laws and their role in global justice.
• Tackling global drug trafficking networks.
• The impact of migration policies on international crime.
• Lessons from Scandinavian prison models.

Criminal Justice Policies and Reforms

• The role of evidence-based practices in policy-making.
• Decriminalization of drug offenses: Pros and cons.
• The effectiveness of “Three Strikes” laws.
• Community-based alternatives to incarceration.
• The future of restorative justice in criminal law.
• Policies addressing mental health and the criminal justice system.
• Challenges in implementing hate crime legislation.
• Reforming bail systems for equitable justice.
• Sentencing reform and its impact on incarceration rates.
• Innovative policing strategies for diverse communities.

The criminal justice field offers a wealth of opportunities for research that can lead to meaningful change in society. The topics listed above span a wide range of subfields, ensuring there is something of interest for every researcher. Whether you’re exploring the psychological underpinnings of criminal behavior, examining the role of technology in crime prevention, or analyzing systemic issues like racial disparities, criminal justice research provides a platform for contributing to the pursuit of fairness and public safety.

By selecting a topic aligned with your interests and expertise, you can create impactful research that addresses pressing challenges in the criminal justice system.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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Criminal justice research topics.

This collection provides overviews of   nearly 100 key criminal justice research topics comprising traditional criminology and its more modern interdisciplinary outgrowths. These topics are divided into six thematic parts:

• Criminology
• Correlates of Crime
• Criminology Theories
• Crime Research
• Types of Crime
• Criminal Justice System

Criminology and Criminal Justice Research Topics

Research topics in criminology:.

• Criminology as Social Science .
• Criminology and Public Policy .
• History of Criminology .

Research Topics in Crime and Victimization:

• Age and Crime .
• Aggression and Crime .
• Citizenship and Crime .
• Education and Crime .
• Employment and Crime .
• Families and Crime .
• Gender and Crime .
• Guns and Crime .
• Immigration and Crime .
• Intelligence and Crime .
• Mental Illness and Crime .
• Neighborhoods and Crime .
• Peers and Crime .
• Race and Crime .
• Religion and Crime .
• Social Class and Crime .
• Victimization .
• Weather and Crime .

Research Topics in Criminology Theories:

• Biological Theori es.
• Classical Criminology .
• Convict Criminology .
• Criminal Justice Theories .
• Critical Criminology .
• Cultural Criminology .
• Cultural Transmission Theory .
• Deterrence and Rational Choice Theory .
• Feminist Criminology .
• Labeling and Symbolic Interaction Theories .
• Life Course Criminology .
• Psychological Theories of Crime .
• Routine Activities Theory .
• Self-Control Theory .
• Social Construction of Crime .
• Social Control Theory .
• Social Disorganization Theory .
• Social Learning Theory .
• Strain Theories .
• Theoretical Integration.

Research Topics in Criminology Research and Measurement:

• Citation and Content Analysis .
• Crime Classification Systems .
• Crime Mapping .
• Crime Reports and Statistics .
• Drug Abuse Warning Network (DAWN) and Arrestee Drug Abuse Monitoring (ADAM) .
• Edge Ethnography .
• Experimental Criminology .
• Fieldwork in Criminology .
• Program Evaluation .
• Quantitative Criminology .

Research Topics in Types of Crime:

• Campus Crime .
• Child Abuse .
• Cybercrime .
• Domestic Violence .
• Elder Abuse .
• Environmental Crime .
• Hate Crime .
• Human Trafficking .
• Identity Theft .
• Juvenile Delinquency .
• Organizational Crime .
• Prostitution .
• Sex Offenses .
• Terrorism .
• Theft and Shoplifting .
• White-Collar Crime .
• Wildlife Crime .

Research Topics in Criminal Justice System:

• Capital Punishment .
• Community Corrections .
• Crime Prevention .
• Criminal Courts .
• Criminal Justice Ethics .
• Criminal Law .
• Criminal Specialization .
• Drug Courts .
• Drugs and the Criminal Justice System .
• Felon Disenfranchisement .
• Forensic Science .
• Juvenile Court .
• Juvenile Justice .
• Mass Media, Crime, and Justice .
• Offender Classification .
• Offender Reentry .
• Police–Community Relations .
• Prison System .
• Problem-Solving Courts .
• Public Health and Criminal Justice .
• Racial Profiling .
• Restorative Justice .
• Sentencing .
• The Police .
• Victim Services .
• Wrongful Convictions .
• Youth Gangs .

Because just listing suggestions for criminal justice research topics will be of limited value we have included short topical overviews and suggestions for narrowing those topics and divided them into 6 parts as in the list above. If you’re interested in some topic in the list follow the links below for more information.

Example   criminal justice research papers   on these topics have been designed to serve as sources of model papers for most criminological topics. These research papers were written by several well-known discipline figures and emerging younger scholars who provide authoritative overviews coupled with insightful discussion that will quickly familiarize researchers and students alike with fundamental and detailed information for each criminal justice topic.

This collection begins by defining the discipline of criminology and observing its historical development (Part I: Criminology ). The various social (e.g., poverty, neighborhood, and peer/family influences), personal (e.g., intelligence, mental illness), and demographic (e.g., age, race, gender, and immigration) realities that cause, confound, and mitigate crime and crime control are featured in   Part II: Correlates of Crime . The research papers in this section consider each correlate’s impact, both independently and in a broader social ecological context. The sociological origins of theoretical criminology are observed across several research papers that stress classical, environmental, and cultural influences on crime and highlight peer group, social support, and learning processes. Examination of these criminological theory research papers quickly confirms the aforementioned interdisciplinary nature of the field, with research papers presenting biological, psychological, and biosocial explanations and solutions for crime (Part III: Criminology Theories ).

Part IV: Criminology Research provides example research papers on various quantitative and qualitative designs and techniques employed in criminology research. Comparison of the purposes and application of these research methods across various criminal justice topics illustrates the role of criminologists as social scientists engaged in research enterprises wherein single studies fluctuate in focus along a pure–applied research continuum. This section also addresses the measurement of crimes with attention to major crime reporting and recording systems.

Having established a theoretical–methodological symmetry as the scientific foundation of criminology, and increasingly the field of criminal justice,   Part V: Types of Crime   considers a wide range of criminal offenses. Each research paper in this section thoroughly defines its focal offense and considers the related theories that frame practices and policies used to address various leading violent, property, and morality crimes. These research papers also present and critically evaluate the varying level of empirical evidence, that is, research confirmation, for competing theoretical explanations and criminal justice system response alternatives that are conventionally identified as best practices.

Ostensibly, an accurate and thorough social science knowledge base stands to render social betterment in terms of reduced crime and victimization through the development of research–based practices. This science–practitioner relationship is featured, advocated, and critiqued in the research papers of the final section,   Part VI: Criminal Justice System . Here, the central components of criminal justice research paper topics (law enforcement, courts, and corrections) are presented from a criminology–criminal justice outlook that increasingly purports to leverage theory and research (in particular, program evaluation results) toward realizing criminal justice and related social policy objectives. Beyond the main system, several research papers consider the role and effectiveness of several popular justice system and wrap-around component initiatives (e.g., specialty courts, restorative justice, and victim services).

See also: Domestic Violence Research Topics and School Violence Research Topics .