Social Explanations Flashcards
The three social theories of criminal behaviour are…
Labelling theory, self fulfilling prophecy, social learning theory
Labelling explains criminal behaviour because…
For example, a child misbehaves once (e.g takes something from an adult) and they are labelled a thief. Next time something goes missing they are blamed as already labelled thief. Child is seen as thief so starts acting in the way expected of them (Farrington)
Explain Cambliss saints and roughnecks study
Studied high school students with a history of criminal behaviour from Chicago. Identified 2 groups, ‘saints with good grades and stable background’ and ‘roughnecks who had lower grades and unstable homes’. Found roughnecks more likely to be arrested to face legal action than saints same behaviour described as spirited
Self fulfilling prophecy is when…
An individual internalises an externally applied label
An example of self fulfilling prophecy is…
When one is labelled a thief after one case of deviant behaviour and is blamed for all other incidents. Eventually one starts to to act this way because it is already expected of them so ‘why not?’
Social learning theory suggests children learn behaviour by…
Observing the behaviours of others and replicating/reproducing the behaviour
Bandura’s study shows evidence of SLT because…
He found children who observe aggressive behaviour later show the same behaviour themselves suggesting criminal behaviour can be learnt same way. Also found children more likely to copy behaviour if saw someone rewarded for that (vicarious reinforcement). If child sees someone benefit from criminal behaviour they’re more likely to copy.
Sutherland suggests…
Children who spend most of their time with people who think crime is ‘ok’ they develop similar thinking therefore more likely to engage in that behaviour
