Question

Judith is taking a walk one night and passes a sports car. She notices that the car keys are on the passenger's seat and is excited at the idea of being able to drive such a powerful and expensive car. Since no one is around, she quietly slips into the car and drives away. According to containment theory, Judith's desire to drive the sports car represents a(n) ________.

a) Inner containment failure.
b) Outer containment failure.
c) Neutralizing technique.
d) Social bond.

Answer 1

Judith's action of taking the car demonstrates a failure of inner containment, as per containment theory.

Step-by-step explanation:

Judith's desire to drive the sports car represents a failure of inner containment. Containment theory, associated with Walter C. Reckless in the field of criminology, suggests that for individuals resisting temptations to commit deviant acts or crimes, protective factors play an essential role. These protective factors are categorized as inner containment, which are personal controls like self-concept, ability to tolerate frustration, and belief in law, and outer containment, which refers to external structures like family and community that provide positive role models and social support. When Judith decides to take the car, she shows a lack of internal control and a breakdown of her inner containment, as she gives in to impulse and temptation contrary to societal norms and laws.