Containment Theory

Who created the Containment Theory?

• Walter C Reckless

What is the Containment Theory?

• Where people face pressures and temptations to commit crime.

• There are two types inner and outer containment; inner is a person self-control and their morals, whereas, outer is about social control from family, schools, and laws controlling behaviour.

What are the four types of inner containment?

• Self-Concept

• Goal Orientation

• Frustration Tolerance

• Norm Retention

What is meant by self-concept?

• This refers to how a person sees themselves.

• Having a positive self-image indicates the less you’re likely to commit crime

What is meant by Goal Orientation?

• Ability to set and pursue realistic and socially acceptable goals

• Gives them something to lose as of this reducing the chance of offending.

What is meant by the frustration tolerance?

• The ability to cope with stress, setbacks, and challenges without resorting to deviant behaviours.

• Having a high tolerance leads to a less likely to react with crime.

What is meant by Norm Retention?

• Refers to the internalisation and adherence to societal norms and values even in the face of pressures ot opportunities to deviate.

• Helps to resist pressures to breaking the law.