Which explanation emphasizes individual-level motivation to succeed and fear of deportation as factors reducing crime among immigrants?

• A. Individual-level explanation for immigration and crime
• B. Acculturation effect
• C. Self-selection
• D. Routine activities theory

Answer: (A)

This question centers on the individual-level explanation for immigration and crime, which focuses on personal incentives and deterrence. Immigrants who are highly motivated to succeed aim to improve their economic situation and secure a better future for their families, a drive that can reduce the appeal of criminal activity. At the same time, the fear of deportation acts as a strong personal deterrent, making illegal actions riskier and less likely. This perspective emphasizes internal choices and the direct consequences individuals face, rather than external social processes or situational factors.

By comparison, the acculturation effect examines how immigrants adapt to the host society over time and how this adaptation influences behavior, not specifically tied to individual ambition or deportation risk. Self-selection looks at who decides to migrate and whether migrants differ from non-migrants in unobserved ways before arrival, a focus on selection rather than ongoing deterrence. Routine activities theory explains crime as a function of daily opportunities and environmental factors (availability of targets, capable guardians, and motivated offenders), not primarily about personal motivation or fear of punishment.