Crime Prevention Criminal Justice

Crime prevention is not the primary objective of sport and physical activity, but it might be an extremely positive product. Criminal justice professionals, politicians, and members of the community have realized that the patrol and investigative resources of the police are limited in preventing many types of crime and that the courts and prisons also have only a small impact on crime rates. Because of this there has been a greater emphasis on crime prevention programs that involve close cooperation between those working in the criminal justice system, other professionals, business people, and community residents. Such programs often use outdoor adventure activities, or ‘demanding physical activity programs’, aimed at developing personal and social skills, and improving self-confidence and self-efficacy. It is hoped that these will transfer to the wider social context and reduce offending behavior (Ehsani, et al., 2012).

Many of the core values inherent in sport are compatible with the principles necessary for development and peace, such as fair play, co-operation, sharing and respect. The life skills learned through sport help empower individuals and enhance psychosocial well-being, such as increased resiliency, self-esteem and connections with others. These features of sport are beneficial to people of all ages, but they are especially vital to the healthy development of young people (Ehsani, et al., 2012).

Sport, however, is a reflection of society. It should be acknowledged that sport, like many aspects of society, simultaneously encompasses some of the worst human traits, including violence, corruption, discrimination, hooliganism, excessive nationalism, cheating and drug abuse. However, these negative aspects of sport by no means outweigh its potential positive benefits (Ehsani, et al., 2012).

Central to the United Nations notion of development is sustainable human development, which recognizes that development is more than economic growth (Ehsani, et al., 2012). Development is a process of enlarging people’s choices and increasing the opportunities available to all members of society. Based on the principles of inclusion, equity and sustainability, emphasis is on the importance of increasing opportunities for the current generation as well as generations to come. Sport can directly help build these capabilities (Ehsani, et al., 2012). Sport and physical activity can combine with other interventions to reduce crime in particular groups and communities (Ehsani, et al., 2012). It appears that sport and physical activity can reduce crime by providing accessible, appropriate activities in a supportive social context. In other words, sport and physical activity must be connected positively within the social fabric of groups and communities. This does not suggest “one size fits all” strategies; instead, they represent the value of community development approaches to tailor programs to particularly needs of high-risk youth (Ehsani, 2012).