Forensics- Different association theory (Cognitive)

Question 1

What is different association theory?

Answer 1

-Sutherland described it, very influential
-People become criminals from their environments, learning
-Integrated stance, factors play roles
-Learning motivations, attitudes, drives
-Favourable messages= increase likelihood, ‘favourable differentiations’

Question 2

What research support is used?

Answer 2

-Matsueda, needed to have more research conducted, to improve ability to predict behaviour
-Main problem=concepts vague, making it easier to test= implications for public policy
-Alarid et al, tested newly convicted criminals, theory served as good generally, necessary to look at crimes context.

Question 3

AO3 (1)

Answer 3

-Too general
-Similar to SLT, but none of the detail of cognitive approaches
-Sociological theory, Sutherland believed cognitive was not necessary

Question 3

AO3 (2)

Answer 3

-Cannot explain all crimes
-e.g. embezzlement, as individualistic, not influenced by others
-One off crimes not well explained

Question 4

AO3 (3)

Answer 4

-Explain the prevalence of crimes
-High crime rates are evident in certain areas, explains how crime becomes endemic