Psychological explanations: differential association theory

• What does differential association theory propose about offending behavior?

  It is learned through association with others
• Who developed the differential association theory?

  Edwin Sutherland
• What is the scientific basis of Sutherland's theory?

  Conditions causing crime should be present when crime occurs
• How does differential association theory explain the learning of offending behavior?

  Through interactions with significant others
• What factors does differential association suggest can predict offending behavior?

  Frequency, intensity, and duration of exposure
• What two factors contribute to offending according to differential association theory?

  Learned attitudes and specific techniques
• How does socialization in prison relate to differential association theory?

  Inmates learn techniques from experienced offenders
• What are the strengths of differential association theory?

  • Shifts focus from biological explanations
  • Highlights social circumstances' role in offending
  • Offers realistic solutions to crime
• What is a potential counterpoint to differential association theory?

  It may stereotype individuals from poor backgrounds
• What does differential association theory suggest about pro-crime values?

  They can lead to offending if they outweigh anti-crime values
• How does differential association theory apply to different social classes?

  • Accounts for offending in all societal sectors
  • Includes 'white-collar' or corporate crimes
  • Explains that crime is not limited to lower classes
• What is a limitation of differential association theory regarding testing?

  It is difficult to test its predictions
• Why is it hard to measure pro-crime attitudes in differential association theory?

  They cannot be easily operationalized
• What does the theory assume about the relationship between pro-crime and anti-crime values?

  Offending occurs when pro-crime values outnumber anti-crime ones
• What is the implication of Sutherland's theory for understanding crime in society?

  It emphasizes the role of social environments