What does the 'social disorganization theory' suggest about property crimes?

The social disorganization theory posits that strong, cohesive communities with stable social structures tend to have lower crime rates, while communities that experience disorganization—such as high levels of poverty, residential mobility, and a lack of social networks—are more prone to crime. This theory suggests that when community structure breaks down, social cohesion and informal social controls weaken, leading to an increase in criminal behavior, including property crimes.

In this context, the correct answer indicates that a breakdown of community structure can lead to higher crime rates, reflecting the idea that the disorganization in a community disrupts the social norms and collective efficacy necessary to prevent crime. This connection highlights the importance of community stability in crime prevention and illustrates how socio-economic factors intersect with crime trends.