Which theory suggests that crime is likely to occur when a motivated offender and a suitable target converge without capable guardianship?

The theory that suggests crime is likely to occur when a motivated offender encounters a suitable target without capable guardianship is Routine Activities Theory. This theory posits that for a crime to happen, three elements must converge: a motivated offender, a suitable target, and the absence of capable guardianship. The theory emphasizes that crime is a normal function of routine activities and everyday life, underscoring that opportunities for crime arise from the usual movements and behaviors of individuals within society.

In this context, the motivated offender has the willingness or desire to commit a crime, the suitable target can be a person, property, or another valuable asset that an offender might choose to exploit, and capable guardianship refers to the presence of individuals or mechanisms (like security systems or police patrols) that can prevent the crime from occurring. The absence of capable guardianship creates an environment where opportunities for crime flourish, making it more likely for criminal acts to take place.

Other options, while related to crime and its prevention, do not encapsulate this specific interplay between offender, target, and guardianship as succinctly as Routine Activities Theory does. For example, Rational Choice Theory focuses on the decision-making processes of offenders, Crime Pattern Theory examines the geographic and social contexts of criminal activity