Many traditional criminological theories focused more on biological, psychological, and sociological explanations of crime rather than the costs and benefits of crime. More conservative approaches, including theories of routine active activities, lifestyle exposure, and opportunity, have clearly incorporated crime rate models as a fundamental part of analyzing the economics of crime. Crime statistics are important for the simple reason that they help put theories into logical perspective. For example, a potential owner may want to examine crime rates in areas of potential occupancy. At a more complex level, it helps law enforcement and legislators create effective crime reduction programs. Additionally, it also helps these agencies determine whether existing crime prevention programs have been effective. Many factors influence crime rates, including socioeconomic status, geographic location, culture, and other lifestyle factors. Specifically, Messner and Blau (1987) used routine activities theory to test the relationship between indicators of leisure activities and the rate of serious crime. They discussed two types of active leisure, the first being a domestic pastime, mainly focused on television. The second type was a non-family leisure event consisting of attendance at sporting events, movie theaters, and entertainment districts. The objective of this article will be to study the effects that a significant amount of leisure activities have on the offender and the victim. Leisure activities not only make crime more opportunistic for offenders, but may also motivate them to engage in criminal activities. On the other hand, it can also be argued ... middle of paper ... such as walking in well-lit areas, staying away from areas known as "hot spots", and letting someone know where you are located, are suggested. In addition, these people must be aware of the risks associated with certain types of activities. Along with creating awareness, individuals should involve themselves in family leisure activities so that their idle hands do not become the devil's workshop. Parents constitute the main basis for the socialization of children; if this process is not effective or is neglected, the result could be detrimental. This can cause children to transition into adulthood without the fundamental skills that prevent the development of a criminal disposition. Now that routine activities theory has provided a better understanding of the economics of crime, let's focus our research on parenting methods that might prevent criminality or crime before, if ever, it develops..