Subcultural theorists on crime

• What theory did Merton develop regarding delinquent subcultures?


  Merton developed a theory on strain and conformity.
• How do delinquent gangs respond to status frustration according to Merton?

  They form their own subculture with their own norms and values.
• What is the relationship between status frustration and delinquent behavior?


  Status frustration leads to committing acts that are frowned upon by society.
• What type of crimes does Cohen associate with gaining respect and revenge in society?

  Cohen associates humanitarian crimes with gaining respect and revenge.
• What do Cloward and Ohlin argue about delinquent subcultures?


  They argue that the type of deviant subculture depends on the social environment.
• What are the three types of delinquent subcultures identified by Cloward and Ohlin?


  1. Criminal subculture

  • Emerges in areas with established criminal opportunities
  • Involves utilitarian crimes for monetary rewards

  1. Conflict subculture

  • Develops in areas with no legitimate opportunities
  • Characterized by high turnover of population

  1. Retreatist subculture

  • Formed by individuals who fail in both legitimate and illegitimate opportunities
• What is the primary focus of criminal subcultures according to Cloward and Ohlin?


  Criminal subcultures focus on utilitarian crime for monetary rewards.
• Why do conflict subcultures develop in certain areas?

  They develop in areas where there is no chance of being an 'apprentice' to organized crime.
• How does the social environment influence the type of delinquent subculture a youth may join?


  The social environment determines the availability of criminal opportunities and influences the youth's response.
• What is a characteristic of areas where conflict subcultures emerge?

  Conflict subcultures emerge in areas with high turnover of population.
• What is the main focus of the Chicago School in relation to delinquency?

  The Chicago School studies the impact of neighborhoods on crime and deviance.
• How do different social environments encourage delinquent behavior according to Cloward and Ohlin?

  Different social environments provide varying levels of access to criminal opportunities.
• What is Miller's view on society compared to other subcultural theories?

  Miller sees society as consisting of different classes, each with a distinct set of values.
• What are the cultural traditions of the lower-class in America according to Miller?

  • Distinct from higher classes
  • Arise from low-skilled, boring jobs
  • Result from periods of unemployment
  • Help deal with their situation and find satisfaction outside of work
• What does Miller identify as focal concerns of the lower-class subculture?

  Miller identifies 'toughness', 'smartness', and 'excitement' as focal concerns.
• What does 'toughness' emphasize in the lower-class subculture?

  'Toughness' emphasizes being macho and showing courage when faced with physical threats.
• How can the emphasis on 'toughness' lead to negative outcomes in the lower-class subculture?

  It can lead to assault and fights as individuals seek to maintain a reputation of toughness.
• What does 'smartness' involve in Miller's theory?

  'Smartness' involves the ability to outwit, outsmart, and con others.
• What behaviors might result from the focal concern of 'smartness'?

  Behaviors such as hustling and picking pockets may result from 'smartness'.