Criminological Theories: 5, Social Learning Theory

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture notes on social learning theory and criminological theories, providing definitions and explanations relevant to the material.

Social Learning Theory

A theory that emphasizes learning behavior through the interaction of cognitive, behavioral, and environmental factors.

Observational Learning

A process where individuals learn behaviors by watching others, especially models such as parents or peers.

Differential Association Theory

A theory proposed by Sutherland stating that criminal behavior is learned through interaction and communication in intimate personal groups.

Classical Conditioning

A learning process that occurs when two stimuli are repeatedly paired, as demonstrated by Ivan Pavlov.

Operant Conditioning

A learning process through which behavior is shaped by reinforcement or punishment, introduced by B.F. Skinner.

Mediation Processes

Cognitive processes that connect stimulus input with behavioral output in social learning.

Differential Reinforcement

The process by which behavior is conditioned by rewards or punishments.

Symbolic Interactionism

A theory suggesting that social interaction consists mainly of the exchange of symbols and meanings.

Imitation

The act of mimicking behaviors observed in others, often shaped by identification with society.

Self-reinforcement

The process of controlling one's own behavior through internal rewards or punishments.

Positive Reinforcement

The introduction of a stimulus that increases the likelihood of a behavior being repeated.

Negative Reinforcement

The removal of an unpleasant stimulus to increase the likelihood of a behavior being repeated.

Discriminative Stimuli

Environmental or internal cues that signal appropriate or expected responses in a given situation.

Peer Influence

The effect that peers have on an individual's behavior, especially significant in adolescence.

Gang Membership

Involvement in a group that influences delinquent behavior, often associated with increased crime.

Social Structure

The organized pattern of social relationships and social institutions that together comprise society.

Differential Social Organization

The varying arrangements of social structure that influence individual behavior patterns.

Feedback Effects

Outcomes from initial behavior that influence whether such behavior is repeated.

Deviant Behavior

Behavior that differs from societal norms, often associated with criminal activity.

Research Empirical Data

Data obtained through observation or experimentation that supports or refutes a theory.

Teenage Drug Prevention

Programs aimed at reducing substance abuse among adolescents through education and support.