Final answer:
People commit less crime as they get older due to the effects of demographic changes, improved social bonds, and better social environments. Theories suggest that as the population ages, there are fewer people in the high-crime age cohort and individuals develop stronger ties to society and their communities.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to G and H, described in various theories, people commit less crime as they age due to several factors, including demographic changes, social environment, and the strength of their social bonds. The maturation of the post-war baby boomers and the resulting demographic shift reduce the number of individuals in the prime criminal age cohort, which naturally leads to lower crime rates. Additionally, social disorganization theory implies that crime rates are higher in unstable neighborhoods where residents cannot exert effective collective control. As people age, they often move to more stable areas and develop stronger attachments to their communities, which discourages criminal behavior.
Hirschi's Control Theory further explains that as people grow older, they establish stronger social bonds through attachment, commitment, involvement, and belief. These bonds increase their stake in conformity, making them less likely to engage in criminal activities. The geographical theory also indicates that the environment plays a role, where the social environment's quality is linked to the likelihood of committing crimes. People moving to better neighborhoods experience a decrease in criminal behavior as their surroundings improve.