Topic 9 - functionalist theories of crime?

Question 1

Introduction?

Answer 1

Functionalism, though dated, remains influential in politics. It examines crime and deviance from a social perspective, exploring their origins and causes. While its ideas have shaped policies, functionalism has limited empirical research and is more theoretical than data-driven.

Question 2

Functionalist approaches to deviance

Answer 2

Functionalist approaches to deviance focus on social structures rather than individual motivations. They assume shared cultural norms (the collective conscience) maintain societal balance. Deviance arises when social order breaks down, leading to anomie. Key ideas include: deviance reinforces societal values through social controls and sanctions, and crime creates jobs and purpose, such as for police and probation services.

Question 3

Emile Durkheim on deviance

Answer 3

Durkheim viewed crime and deviance as essential for society, arguing they serve social functions. Crime acts as a “safety valve” for discontent and can signal problems within society that require attention. He saw deviance as a means of promoting social change, noting that figures like Gandhi and Mandela were imprisoned for challenging unjust laws. While crime can foster social unity by reinforcing boundaries, it can also contribute to social disorganization when unchecked. Deviance strengthens social bonds when it sparks collective responses, and societal reactions to crime can lead to law reforms, as seen with the 2013 same-sex marriage legislation.

Question 4

Durkheim identified various types of criminals?

Answer 4

Genetic criminals are believed to commit crimes due to biological factors. Functional rebels engage in deviance to highlight social system strains or issues. Deviants who are improperly socialized lack the norms and values necessary for conforming to society’s expectations.

Question 5

Assessments of Durkheim’s theory?

Answer 5

Durkheim’s theory has influenced functionalism and subcultural theories like labeling theory. However, it overlooks the individual nature of crime and fails to address that some crimes may not be socially “normal.” It also neglects issues like society’s historical blind eye to domestic violence and does not account for variations in conviction rates among different social groups.

Question 6

Robert K.Merton and social strain theory?

Answer 6

Robert K. Merton’s Social Strain Theory (1938) built on Durkheim’s concept of anomie. Merton argued that criminal behavior arises from the structure and culture of society, particularly the conflict between societal values (like the “American Dream”) and individuals’ unequal access to opportunities. This gap between societal goals and the means to achieve them causes “social strain.” Those unable to achieve success through conventional means may turn to alternative, often criminal, ways of attaining social values.

Question 7

Conformity?

Answer 7

Merton’s five adaptations to social strain are:

Conformity: Following societal rules to achieve success.
Innovation: Committed to social values but using alternative means to achieve success.
Ritualism: Going through the motions without real expectations, finding satisfaction in the process.
Retreatism: Rejecting both societal goals and means, often turning to addiction or alternative lifestyles.
Rebellion: Rejecting societal values and seeking to replace them, often through protest or violence.

Question 8

Assessments of Merton’s theory?

Answer 8

Assessments of Merton’s theory:

Limited direct evidence supports his ideas.
He critiques Western society’s greed as a cause of crime but overlooks criminal subcultures (e.g., gangs, drug cultures).
Focuses mainly on individuals, not groups.
Does not explain crimes committed by the rich and powerful.

Question 9

Albert Cohen and functionalist subcultural theory?

Answer 9

Albert Cohen and Functionalist Subcultural Theory:

Cohen (1955) criticized Merton’s theory, focusing on working-class delinquent boys.
He argued that deviance is collective, not individual, and linked to gang culture.
Cohen rejected Merton’s monocultural approach, noting that different subcultures have distinct value systems.
He explained that working-class boys face status frustration in school, judged by middle-class standards.
Unable to succeed, they form subcultures with values hostile to mainstream culture, leading to vandalism, truancy, and crime.
These subcultures offer alternative status and recognition.