Subcultural Theories

Question 1

general theory:

Answer 1

they accept the view of the ‘typical criminal’ but focus on the influence of the peer group on young people and the norms and values which form within subcultures to explain criminality

these subcultures may normalise criminal behaviour as a response to strains

Question 2

Cloward and Ohlin (1961)

Answer 2

see deviance as a reaction to problems in achieving the values of mainstream culture

he/she cannot achieve the goals via legitimate means

some may join criminal subcultures whereby gang members access a hierarchy of criminal opportunity or become ‘retreatists’

Question 3

Cohen (1955)

Answer 3

WC boys are aware of mainstream values e.g. success, good job

they understand MC boys could get status if they achieved these things

a WC boy who clings to the value system will recognise himself as inferior and feel ‘status frustration

those who perform successful in terms of delinquent values within their subculture, gain status within their subculture among their peers

Question 4

Miller (1958)

Answer 4

WC boys have ‘focal concerns’ (values) which may lead them to deviant behaviour

e.g. being tough, macho, streetwise

conformity to these focal concerns is more important to a WC boy than MC codes of conduct

Question 5

Evaluating Cloward&Ohlin, Cohen and Miller

Answer 5

they generalise about working class culture

in reality, WC styles are many and varied and are subject to regional, ethnic and gender variations

their ideas can be seen as outdated