Revising the Critical Gaze: An Inversion of Criminological Theories to
Center Race, Racism, and Resistance
Abstract
We offer a method to invert and redefine three predominant
criminological theories from deficit-based to strength-based theories of
crime. Using a nine-step protocol, we devised procedures on how to
perform theoretical inversions, which include critically assessing the
original framework of an identified theory, assuming an opposite frame,
listing the original propositions, and applying an opposing frame to
revise the original theory’s proposition. Our inversion method produced
punitive provocation theory, critical environmental adaptation theory,
and socio-structural induction theory, as theoretical inversions of
deterrence, social disorganization, and self-control theories. We
suggest different measurement options for these new inverted theories,
including a focus on the structural antecedents of crime such as
racial/ethnic discrimination, exclusion, surveillance practices, and
divestment from communities. To ameliorate under-theorizing and create a
more equitable and less harmful society, we urge theorists, researchers,
and practitioners to adopt a more inclusive, critical, and reflexive
approach to understanding human behavior.