Exploring Examples of Differential Association- Situations that Shape Criminal Behavior
Which situations are examples of differential association?
Differential association theory, developed by Edwin Sutherland in the 1930s, posits that individuals learn criminal behavior through their interactions with others. This theory emphasizes the role of social relationships and the influence of peers in shaping an individual’s propensity for criminal activity. Understanding which situations exemplify differential association is crucial for comprehending the dynamics of criminal behavior and designing effective crime prevention strategies. This article explores various scenarios where differential association theory can be observed, shedding light on the social processes that contribute to criminal behavior.
One example of differential association is the presence of delinquent peers in an individual’s social network. When individuals associate with individuals who engage in criminal activities, they are more likely to adopt similar behaviors. This can occur in various settings, such as schools, neighborhoods, or online communities. For instance, a teenager may start hanging out with a group of friends who are involved in drug dealing, leading to the teenager’s own involvement in similar activities. In this scenario, the delinquent peers serve as a source of differential association, influencing the teenager’s behavior through their example and encouragement.
Another situation that exemplifies differential association is the exposure to media portrayals of crime. Research has shown that individuals who are exposed to a high amount of violence and crime in the media are more likely to engage in criminal behavior. This can be attributed to the differential association between the media content and the individual’s perception of what is acceptable behavior. For example, a person who watches a lot of violent movies may begin to view aggression as a legitimate means of resolving conflicts, leading to an increased likelihood of engaging in violent behavior.
Family dynamics also play a significant role in differential association. A child growing up in a household where crime is normalized or excused may be more likely to engage in criminal activities. This can occur when parents or guardians themselves engage in criminal behavior or when the family environment lacks the structure and supervision necessary to deter delinquent behavior. In such cases, the family serves as a source of differential association, reinforcing criminal attitudes and behaviors.
Educational settings can also be a source of differential association. When students are exposed to a culture of violence and aggression within the school environment, they may internalize these values and adopt them as their own. This can occur when teachers and administrators fail to address and discourage bullying, violence, or other delinquent behaviors. In this scenario, the school serves as a source of differential association, contributing to the development of criminal behavior among its students.
Lastly, the influence of religious and cultural beliefs can also be a factor in differential association. In some cultures, certain behaviors may be considered acceptable or even encouraged due to religious or cultural norms. For example, in some religious or cultural contexts, theft or fraud may be viewed as justifiable if it serves a greater cause or benefits the community. In such cases, the religious or cultural beliefs serve as a source of differential association, influencing individuals’ attitudes and behaviors towards crime.
In conclusion, various situations can exemplify differential association, contributing to the development of criminal behavior. Understanding these situations is essential for addressing the root causes of criminality and designing effective interventions. By recognizing the sources of differential association, policymakers, educators, and community leaders can work together to create environments that promote positive social interactions and deter criminal behavior.
