The disproportionate representation of young males from lower social classes in arrest statistics highlights the influence of _____ on crime and criminal justice outcomes.

The disproportionate representation of young males from lower social classes in arrest statistics highlights the influence of socioeconomic status on crime and criminal justice outcomes. This means that a person's economic background can affect their likelihood of being arrested and treated by the legal system. For example, young males from poorer neighborhoods may have fewer opportunities for education and jobs, which can lead them to engage in criminal activities out of necessity or lack of options. Additionally, these individuals may face more police scrutiny and harsher legal consequences compared to those from wealthier backgrounds. This situation shows how social and economic factors can shape not only crime rates but also how the justice system responds to different groups of people.