Meaning of concentric circles according to criminology ?

In criminology, concentric circles refer to a theory developed by sociologist Clifford Shaw and Henry McKay in the early 20th century. The theory suggests that crime and delinquency are more prevalent in certain areas of a city, particularly in the inner city or central areas, and decrease as one moves outward towards the suburbs. The theory posits that social disorganization and environmental factors in the inner city contribute to higher rates of crime and delinquency, while more stable and cohesive communities in the suburbs have lower rates of crime. This theory has been influential in understanding the spatial distribution of crime and the impact of social and environmental factors on criminal behavior.