'Climate change' and its bearing on violent crimes in a Rio Grande Valley City in Texas.

摘要

Previous theories have attributed aggression to biological influences but this thesis will focus on the frustration-aggression hypothesis. If such a theory is relevant, weather may have an effect on violent crime. This study intends to answer whether a relationship between violence (specifically violent crime) and warm temperatures exists and what type of relationship exists. The study tests the hypothesis that warm temperatures will have a positive association with violent crime. Based on secondary data the Part I Index crimes (Violent) or murder rape, robbery, and aggravated assault were collapsed into two variables, 'Violent' which omitted robbery and 'Violent 2' which included all four. It is also important to note the effect recent and further climate change has and will have in the future in regards to violent crime. If such an effect is possible, criminal justice agencies already understaffed may be bombarded with more paper work and calls for service.;Keywords: weather, violence, climate change, aggression, temperature