Classic Sociological Explanations of Crime Part 2 Flashcards
Differential Association Theory
-Edwin Sutherland (1939)
-Criminal behaviour = learned behaviour.
( looking at who you associate with- micro level)
-Those who surround themselves with definitions more favourable to crime are more likely to engage in crime (were they more bullied, what video games did they play)
Criticism of Differential Association Theory
Criticism: Not all deviant acts are the result of learning
Edwin Sutherland says we hear both influences good (you’re not gna get caught) and bad (Actions have consequences) and we tip the scales by hearing associations with one more than another
*Not question - note
Labelling Theory: who
Originated from symbolic interactionism — Cooley (1902), Mead (1934), and Tannenbaum (1938).
What does Labelling Theory focus on
-explaining how crime and deviance are defined
-how rule-breaking is reacted to by those with power
(deviant label -> more criminal behaviour [secondary deviance])
Labelling Theory: Two concepts central to Lemert’s (1969) theory
-Primary deviance: Initial act of deviance.
-Secondary deviance: Societal reaction, and internalizing the label. (doesn’t explain primary deviance)
Those who are labelled as deviant are likely to take on a deviant identity, which can then lead to further offending.
crime = interaction between behaviour and social reaction
Criticism of Labelling Theory
-Labelling some people has a deterrence effect on others.
-Doesn’t consider that illegal activity can take place over a prolonged period of time, even when the perpetrator’s actions never come to the attention of the CJS.
Critical Criminology
-Societies are best characterized by the struggle and conflict between the powerful and less powerful classes.
-Focus of criminology should be directed not only to the rule-breakers, but also the rule-makers.
-The state secures and maintains the interests of the economic elites. (Focus on class conflict)
Left Realism
- Crime = what is contained in the Criminal Code.
-Main causes of working-class street crime:
1. Relative deprivation:
For Lea and Young, this type of situation gives rise to feelings of powerlessness, exclusion and social breakdown and incites criminal behaviour. ( not having what others have)
2. Police’s antagonistic and ineffective response to this situation. (police are outsiders coming in)
-creates a distrusting public, unwillingness to co-operate with police investigations, exacerbating the social malaise.
What is social malaise
Malaise is a state in which there is something wrong with a society or group, for which there does not seem to be a quick or easy solution.
Criticisms of Left Realism
-More of a political perspective than a theoretical perspective of crime.
-Doesn’t address issues pertaining to female violence.
-Society would have to undergo a major reorganization/revolution for the “practice” of this perspective to be put into action.
