Introduction: this article presents an overview of available in criminological science theories of crime and their criminological meaning. The role of foreign and domestic criminologists in the development of the theories is noted. Materials and Methods: the bases for the article were works on criminology, sociology, psychology, deviance study, criminal law, philology. When researching historical, comparative and legal, system, structure, logical, specific sociological methods were used that helped to analyse and generalize common theoretical issues connected with the research and formulate conclusions and suggestions. Results: in the article the development priorities of criminology as a science at the present stage, as well as its future development, not only in domestic science, but also abroad are noted. Discussion and Conclusions: in view of the fact that, according to the majority of scientists, contemporary criminological science is interdisciplinary in nature, knowledge of classical theories of crime is important to design concepts and exploring new potential threats to man and society. The article suggested the author's vision of the further development of criminology and theories of criminal behavior. Key words: theory of criminal behavior, crime, criminology, causes of crime, minimization, prevention, resistance, foreign theories of crime