Criminology is the scientific study of crime, including its causes, consequences, and prevention. It is an interdisciplinary field that draws on sociology, psychology, law, and other social sciences to understand the nature and causes of criminal behavior, as well as the social impact of crime and criminal justice policies. Criminologists use a variety of methods to study crime, including surveys, interviews, and statistical analysis. The goal of criminology is to develop evidence-based strategies for preventing and responding to crime.