5 Social Theories of Crime Free Online FlashCards

What social gap does strain theory connect to crime?

Strain theory links crime to pressures created by a gap between socially encouraged goals and access to legitimate ways of achieving them.

What mismatch did Merton emphasize in strain theory?

Merton emphasized the mismatch between culturally valued success, often measured by wealth, and unequal access to accepted opportunities.

What kinds of stress does general strain theory consider?

General strain theory includes stressful experiences such as losing something valued, persistent unfair treatment, or being unable to avoid harmful circumstances.

Does strain inevitably lead to crime?

No. People respond differently to strain; coping resources, social support, and lawful opportunities can influence their responses.

What does differential association theory say people learn through close relationships?

Differential association theory proposes that people can learn criminal techniques, motives, and justifications through close relationships.

Which processes does Akers's social learning theory emphasize?

Akers's theory emphasizes modeling, reinforcement, and punishment: rewards can encourage offending, while consequences and conventional influences can discourage it.

What are the four bonds in Hirschi's social bond theory?

Hirschi's four bonds are attachment, commitment, involvement, and belief.

How can social bonds discourage offending?

Strong ties to conventional society can restrain offending by giving people commitments and relationships they may risk losing.

What does labeling theory examine?

Labeling theory examines how social reactions shape the meaning and consequences of deviance, including the official designation of someone as an offender.

How can an offender label affect later life?

A label can affect relationships, opportunities, and self-identity; exclusion or repeated stigma may make continued offending more likely, but this outcome is not inevitable.

What does selective enforcement mean in labeling perspectives?

Selective enforcement means similar behavior may receive different responses depending on who is involved and their authority or social influence.

What do conflict theories ask about law and power?

Conflict theories examine how inequality and power shape whose interests laws serve, which conduct is policed, and whether rules are applied consistently.