What type of theory strongly opposes the notion of free will in crime causation?

Positivism is a type of theory that emphasizes that behavior, including criminal behavior, is determined by factors outside of an individual's control, such as biological, psychological, or social influences. This perspective argues that human behavior is not a matter of free will but is shaped by various determinants that can be studied scientifically. Positivism builds on the idea that understanding the causes of criminal behavior requires an empirical, objective examination of these influences, which contrasts sharply with theories that suggest individuals have the autonomy to choose their actions freely.

In this context, deterrence theory focuses on the idea that people will refrain from criminal behavior if they perceive the consequences to be severe enough. Conflict theory examines the power struggles within society and how they shape laws and behaviors, and social learning theory posits that individuals learn behaviors through interactions with others. While these theories may incorporate aspects of decision-making or social influences, they do not negate the notion of free will to the same extent that positivism does, making positivism the correct choice for the question at hand.