Focusing on pure criminology (not criminal justice systems topics), this book takes a broad approach to criminological theory, incorporating sociology, psychology, biology, and ecology. The text blends the theoretical and applied aspects of criminology, incorporating timely topics such as gang violence, substance abuse, serial murder, and satanic cults. Writing from a social sciences perspective, the authors explore why and how crime occurs, and how this knowledge can guide policy development. The authors show the interplay of theory, research, and public policy throughout the text.