Many traditional criminological theories focused more on biological, psychological, and sociological explanations of crime rather than on the costs and benefits of crime. More conservative approaches, including routine activity, lifestyle exposure, and opportunity theories, have clearly incorporated crime rate models as a key part of the analysis of the economics of crime. Crime statistics are important for the simple reason that they help put theories into logical perspective. For example, a potential homeowner may want to look at crime rates in areas of potential occupancy. On a more complex level, it helps law enforcement and legislators create effective crime reduction programs. Furthermore, it also helps these agencies determine whether the crime prevention programs, which have been in place, have been successful. There are many factors that influence crime rates including socioeconomic status, geographic location, culture, and other lifestyle factors. More specifically, Messner and Blau (1987) used routine activity theory to test the relationship between indicators of recreational activities and the rate of serious crime. They discussed two types of recreational activities, the first of which was a home pastime, primarily focused on watching television. The second type was a non-domestic recreational event that consisted of attending sporting events, movie theaters, and entertainment districts. The focus of this article will be to study the effects that substantial amounts of recreational activities have on the offender and the victim. Recreational activities not only make a crime more opportunistic for offenders, but can also provide offenders with motivation to engage in criminal activity. On the other hand, there may also be a discussion… middle of paper… such as walking in well-lit areas, refraining from areas known as “hot spots,” and letting someone know where you are, are suggested. Furthermore, these people should be aware of the risks arising from certain types of activities. Along with mindfulness, individuals should be involved in family recreational activities so that their idle hands do not become the devil's workshop. Parents provide the primary foundation in the socialization of children; if this process is not effective or is neglected the result could be harmful. It can lead to children transitioning into adulthood without the foundational skills that prevent the development of a criminal disposition. Now that routine activity theory has created a clear understanding of the economics of crime, we focus our research on what parenting methods might prevent crime or crime sooner, if it ever developed..