What evidence suggests an increase in female offending rates during the 20th century?

The choice indicating the growth of the female share of offenses highlights a key trend observed during the 20th century regarding female offending rates. This trend is supported by various studies and statistics that demonstrate an increasing proportion of women being arrested and convicted for crimes that were traditionally dominated by men.

As society evolved, women's roles changed significantly, which contributed to their engagement in criminal activities. Factors such as the pursuit of economic independence and shifts in societal expectations allowed women to participate more actively in both legitimate and criminal economies. Research indicates that offenses committed by women, including both petty crimes and more serious offenses, have risen, signaling a noticeable increase in female criminal behavior.

In contrast, while the rise of organized crime and increased media attention on female criminals are relevant topics, they do not directly indicate a rise in offending rates among women specifically. Lastly, the decline of traditional family structures can indeed influence crime rates, but it does not specifically point to an increase in female offending as a distinct trend. Thus, the growth of the female share of offenses offers the strongest evidence for rising rates of female crime in the 20th century.