Beginning in the 1990s, Crime Rates Began to Decline Nationwide

question 63

Multiple Choice

Beginning in the 1990s, crime rates began to decline nationwide. In 2011, the Federal Bureau of Investigation announced that crime rates had reached a 40-year low. What factor may account for this trend?

• A) worsening economic conditions
• B) increasing use of sophisticated home security systems
• C) increasing use of cocaine and other illegal drugs
• D) increasing levels of lead in Americans' blood

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Definitions:

Social Desirability

The tendency of respondents to answer questions in a manner that will be viewed favorably by others, often leading to over-reporting of 'positive' behaviors or under-reporting of 'negative' behaviors.

Independent Variable

In experimental and statistical research, the variable that is manipulated or changed to observe its effect on a dependent variable.

Manipulated

Altered or controlled in a deliberate way, often to achieve a specific outcome or effect in research or other contexts.

Constant

A quality, value, or quantity that remains unchanged or stable within a given context or over time.