Ch.7: Social Process Theories

Crime is a socialized behavior.

Social Learning Theories (2)

1. Differential association theory

2. Neutralization theory

Social Control Theories (3)

1. Containment theory

2. Social bonding theory

3. Self-control theory

Social Learning Theory

Criminal behavior is learned through human interaction

Social Control Theory

Human behavior is controlled through close associations w/institutions and individuals

Social Reaction Theory

People given negative labels by others accept those labels as personal identity

Differential Association Theory

Created by Edwin Sutherland, people commit crime when their social learning leads them to perceive more definitions favoring crime than favoring non-criminal behavior

Key Principle of Differential Association

Person becomes delinquent because they have an excess of definitions favorable to law violation

Neutralization Theory

Law violators must learn techniques that enable them to neutralize (balance) guilt before they can commit crime

Containment Theory

Focuses on how individuals who face social pressures to commit crime fail to resist the pressures

Containments

Barriers that counteract the effects of pushes and pulls towards committing crimes

Outer Containments

“Watchful eyes” around us that we take into consideration before committing crime

Social Bonding Theory

Assumes all individuals are potential law violators but most are kept under control due to strong social bonds

Social Bonds

Ties that bond people to society

Social Bonds (4)

1. Attatchment

2. Commitment

3. Involvement

4. Belief

Strongest Social Bond

Attachment

Self-Control Theory

Gottfredson & Hirschi, individuals w/low self-control are more likely to commit criminal behaviors

Labeling Theory (social reaction theory)

Howard Becker & others, argues crime is a label attached to individuals by those in power

Primary Deviance

An offender’s initial act of violating the law

Secondary Deviance

A norm violation/crime that is known and negative label is applied

Deviance Amplification

Secondary deviance pushes offenders out of mainstream society and they are in an escalating cycle of crime

Diversion

Designed to remove the negative effects of labeling