Week 7: Differential Association Theory (DAT), Social Learning, and Control Theory Flashcards
Who developed the differential association theory?
Edwin Sutherland, pointed to the importance of social interaction with people with deeper criminal values and greater criminal skills
What is the Differential Association Theory (DAT)
suggests that criminal behavior is learned through social interactions with others who promote and support criminal activities, emphasizes the importance of relationships and social environment in the development of criminal behavior
What does who we learn from in the differential association theory depend on?
the frequency, duration, priority, intensity, our interaction with particular social groups, when we have longer and closer interactions with groups who engage in criminal behavior
How might differential association theory inform interventions to prevent youth offending?
positive role models and mentorship, family and community programs, educational and recreational activities, counseling and support services
What are the implications of differential association theory for the notion of prison as a site of rehabilitation?
for prisons to serve as effective sites of rehabilitation, they must focus on reducing negative association and providing inmates with the skills and support needed to form and maintain positive social relationships
What is the effect of two adults sharing a prison cell on criminal behavior
they found that cellmates with more criminal experience deter criminal behavior, particularly among the youngest prisoners
What is a white collar crime?
a crime committed by a person of respectability and high social status in the course of their occupation
What is the Social Learning Theory?
developed by Akers, explains how individuals learn to engage in criminal behavior through social interactions and experiences. The likelihood of engaging in crime depends on associations with others, personal definitions of behavior, reinforcement patterns, imitation of others, and various social and personal factors. Changes in these factors can lead to changes in behavior, suggesting that interventions targeting these areas can help prevent or reduce criminal activity
What is the Social Control Theory?
developed by Hirschi, looked at why some people refrain from offending even though we are all potential criminals. Found that crime is more likely when our bonds to society are weak. These bonds are based on attachment, commitment, involvement, and belief. Also found that criminal offending is less likely where self-control is high
What is low self-control said to be caused by in the social control theory?
caused by ineffective/incomplete childhood socialization, high desire for achievement, high impulsivity, high risk taking, low skills, low empathy, low tolerance for frustration, etc.
How can crime be reduced according to the social learning theory?
by changing the social learning opportunities available
