THE ROLE OF SOCIAL SCIENCE RESEARCH IN CRIME CONTROL IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The paper examines the role of social science research in crime control in Nigeria. Data for the study was generated through secondary sources of data such as textbook and online materials. The paper reviewed two theories, the General strain theory GST, expanded by Robert Agnew (1992), and social control theory, developed by Ivan (1958). The social control theory was adopted as a theoretical framework. The paper hold that understanding role of technology in crime addressing structural
inequalities, and identifying the root causes of crime and among others are identified as role of social science research in crime control in Nigeria. The paper also enumerates the numerous challenges in fight against crime control in Nigeria, which include Technological advancement in crime, corruption and accountability, underfunded and understaffed law enforcement agencies and global crime and so on. It is recommended that, there is need for strengthen and maintaining of social bonds through constants of children to ensure social bonds are not broken, Government to ensure arrest and prosecute the offender to serve as deterrence, and there is need for government to improve funding’s of law enforcement agencies and others.