Read Item B below and answer the question that follows - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 4 - 2019 - Paper 3

To evaluate sociological explanations of female offending, we first need to understand the arguments presented in Item B. The first perspective highlights the influence of patriarchy on female offending. Feminist sociologists, such as Adler and Simon, argue that the weakening of patriarchal structures allows women more freedom and thus leads to increased involvement in criminal activities. This suggests that crime may be a response to newfound liberation rather than a mere deviation from traditional gender roles.

On the other hand, the second perspective addresses how the criminal justice system interacts with female offenders. Scholars focus on the treatment of women by police and courts, which can be influenced by societal stereotypes about femininity and criminality. Some argue that the media’s portrayal of women, often sensationalized, impacts these perceptions and can lead to harsher treatment for women in the system. For instance, when women are portrayed through the lens of moral panic, their offenses may be judged more severely than comparable male offenses.

In evaluating these perspectives, it is crucial to consider both sides. While the feminist perspective highlights the role of changing societal norms, it can be argued that it overlooks the systemic biases that remain in law enforcement and judicial practices. Additionally, the critical perspective may not fully account for the agency of women in committing offenses, suggesting a need to synthesize both viewpoints to understand female offending comprehensively.

Overall, a balanced evaluation should indicate that sociological explanations of female offending are complex and multifaceted, and that both the weakening of patriarchal control and the impact of police and media stigmas must be considered to understand the phenomenon fully.