What is a significant change observed in female criminal patterns according to Alder's thesis?

Alder's thesis argues that as women gain more equality in society, particularly in terms of economic and social roles, their criminal behaviors begin to reflect those traditionally associated with men. This shift can be attributed to several factors, including the liberation movement, which encouraged women to pursue more active roles beyond the domestic sphere. As women became more integrated into the workforce and experienced greater independence, they also engaged in activities that are typically associated with male criminality, such as violent crime, organized crime, and other crimes that were historically male-dominated.

This change suggests that as societal roles evolve, so too do criminal behaviors, with women increasingly participating in the same types of crime that men previously dominated. The emphasis on the increase in women committing traditional male crimes highlights a broader societal shift and challenges the notion of crime being a predominantly male activity. This insight helps in understanding how societal changes, including gender equality efforts, can influence crime patterns across different demographics.