Theories Flashcards
Durkheim’s Theory of Suicide
Weak ties to the community can lead to suicide. He did not have accurate statistics but his theory helped research a lot.
Anomie Theory
Social standards and norms are unclear to the individual which leads to normlessness. This leads to deviance and criminal activity since they do not think their actions are wrong.
Strain Theory
Strain on your life (stress to get a job, financial strain…) can lead to criminal behaviour such as stealing because they can’t afford something. Females and males respond differently to strain. Females are concerned with relationships and bonds. Males are concerned with material success.
Control Theory
Society is a set of institutions that control and regulate rule-breaking behaviour.
Power Control Theory
Explains gender differences in delinquency rates by connecting them to the level of social/parental control practiced. Patriarchal households: traditional gender roles, males were the heads of the household and worked, where the females would stay at home and care for the children. Egalitarian households: roles are shared equally between mothers and fathers.
Labelling theory
How crime and deviancy are defined. Primary labelling: initial act. Secondary labelling: social reaction, internalizing label.
General Theory of Crime
All types of crime are due to low self-control and neglectful parents.
Life Course theory
Individuals will refrain from criminal activity as they get older.
Rational Choice Theory
Criminal behaviour is the result of conscious decision-making.
