*Psychological Explanations:Differential Association Theory Flashcards
What is differential association theory?
Individuals learn the values, attitudes, techniques and motives for offending through association and interaction with different people.
What did Sutherland aim to develop in his scientific basis for differential association theory?
A set of scientific principles that could explain all types of offending.
What is the key condition outlined by Sutherland regarding crime?
The conditions which are said to cause crime should be present when crime is present and absent when crime is absent.
What does differential association theory aim to discriminate?
Between those who become offenders and those who don’t, regardless of social class or economic background.
How is offending viewed in differential association theory?
Offending is learned behavior, occurring through interactions with significant individuals.
Who are typically the significant individuals influencing offending behavior?
Usually family and peer groups.
What factors are needed to mathematically predict an individual’s likelihood of committing an offense?
- Frequency
- Intensity
- Duration of exposure to deviant and non-deviant norms and values.
What leads to offending according to differential association theory?
Learned attitudes towards offending and learning specific offending acts/techniques.
When a person is socialised into a group, what are they exposed to?
Values and attitudes towards the law.
What happens if pro-criminal attitudes outweigh pro-social attitudes?
The individual is likely to offend.
What kind of skills might a potential offender learn?
Skills required to commit a crime, such as picking locks and moving around quietly.
What does Sutherland’s theory explain about recidivism?
It accounts for why many convicts reoffend when released.
How do prisoners learn offending techniques while incarcerated?
Through observation, imitation, or tuition from each other.
What was one of the strengths of differential association theory when it was first published?
It changed the focus of offending explanations from biological and individualistic views to social circumstances and environment.
What types of offenses does differential association theory account for?
Offending in all sections of society, including both lower and affluent classes.
