According to Lea and Young, which of the following is a key factor in understanding crime?

Lea and Young emphasize relative deprivation as a key factor in understanding crime. Their theory argues that crime is often influenced by individuals' perceptions of their situation compared to others in society. When people feel deprived of resources, status, or opportunities relative to those around them, it can lead to feelings of frustration and resentment. This emotional response can result in criminal behavior as individuals seek to address their perceived injustices, either through legitimate means or by resorting to crime.

This perspective expands the understanding of crime beyond economic factors or social class alone by highlighting the psychological and social dimensions of deprivation. In contrast, the other options address important aspects of social dynamics and crime; however, they do not capture the core concept that Lea and Young focus on regarding the subjective experience of deprivation in relation to crime. For instance, while employment opportunities are relevant, they fall under a more external factor without the personal psychological element that relative deprivation encompasses.