What evidence does the Chivalry Thesis provide from self-reported studies?

Study for the AQA Sociology Crime and Deviance Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and explanations, to master the subject. Excel in your exam!

The Chivalry Thesis suggests that society, particularly the criminal justice system, is inclined to treat women with more leniency than men, which can lead to underreporting of crimes committed by females. Self-reported studies that provide evidence for this thesis often show that women acknowledge committing fewer crimes than they actually do. This is indicative of the societal perceptions and expectations surrounding female behavior, which tends to view them as less criminal or more innocent. As a result, when women are surveyed about their criminal activities, they might underreport their involvement, whether due to societal pressures, self-perception, or the belief that their actions may not be considered serious offenses. This supports the idea that the criminal justice system's chivalrous treatment may contribute to a discrepancy between the real levels of female offending and their self-reported figures.

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