Differential Association Theory Concepts

The video explores Edwin Sutherland's Differential Association Theory, which suggests that criminal behavior is learned through interactions with others rather than being innate. The theory emphasizes the influence of social environments and attitudes on criminal behavior. Key elements include behaviorism, social learning, and the impact of pro-criminal and anti-criminal attitudes. The Cambridge Study in Delinquency Development supports the theory by highlighting risk factors like family background and peer influence. While the theory explains various crimes, it is criticized for overemphasizing nurture and being socially sensitive.

What is the main premise of differential association theory?

• Criminal behavior is a result of economic status.

• Criminal behavior is caused by mental illness.

• Criminal behavior is learned through interactions with others.

• Criminal behavior is inherited genetically.

According to differential association theory, what influences the development of criminal behavior?

• Interactions with others

• Biological factors

• Government policies

• The media

Which of the following is NOT a key element of differential association theory?

• Behaviorism and social learning

• Attitudes towards criminal behavior

• Genetic predisposition

• Factors influencing the learning of criminal behavior

What did the Cambridge study in delinquency development primarily investigate?

• The effectiveness of rehabilitation programs

• The development of delinquency over time

• The role of genetics in criminal behavior

• The impact of media on crime

Which factor was NOT identified as a risk factor for delinquency in the Cambridge study?

• Dietary habits

• School performance

• Peer influence

• Family background

What is one strength of differential association theory?

• It explains a wide range of crimes.

• It focuses solely on biological factors.

• It ignores social influences.

• It is based on economic theories.

What is a limitation of differential association theory?

• It overemphasizes biological factors.

• It ignores the role of peer influence.

• It is too focused on economic status.

• It overemphasizes nurture over nature.

How can differential association theory be socially sensitive?

• It focuses too much on individual choice.

• It does not consider the impact of media.

• It ignores the role of education in crime prevention.

• It suggests that people from certain backgrounds are more likely to be criminals.

What does the theory suggest about the relationship between environment and criminal behavior?

• Environment plays a critical role in shaping attitudes toward crime.

• Environment only affects minor crimes.

• Environment has no impact on criminal behavior.

• Environment is less important than genetic factors.

What is the next focus after discussing differential association theory?

• Biological theories of crime

• Media influence on crime

• Cognitive theories of criminal behavior

• Economic theories of crime