Cohens theory of delinquent subculture Flashcards
Understand and memorise Cohen's theory
What date did Cohen develop delinquent subculture theory?
1955
What perspective is Cohen’s theory?
Functionalist
What does delinquent subculture argue?
That delinquency is a collective response rather than an individual one.
He argues that working-class boys share the same goals of mainstream culture but have little opportunity to attain them.
They are at the bottom of the stratification system with success blocked and therefore are frustrated and dissatisfied.
How is it created?
By rejecting the goals of mainstream culture they, therefore, create a new set of norms and values. The result of this is a delinquent subculture.
What is status frustration?
A feeling of frustration of individuals when they are denied access or opportunity to achieve social status.
Why is a delinquent subculture provide for individuals?
It not only rejects mainstream culture but reverses it. High value is placed on activities such as stealing, vandalism, etc which are condemned in the wider society.
It offers positive rewards for those who are successful in the subculture to gain recognition from their peers.
Delinquent activities that are valued in the subculture which become a source of social status within the subculture.
positives?
Provides an explanation for delinquent acts that do not appear to be motivated by a monetary reward.
Criticism?
This is only plausible for a small minority of delinquents. Views that most youths originally accept mainstream standards of success, rather than the experience of guilt and shame at their failure.
They feel resentment at being regarded as failures by their peers, and teachers, whose values they do not share or accept.
It is more relevant in cultural deprivation than a theory to explain delinquency.
