Social Disorganization Theory Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What is a primary goal of training adolescents in anger control and problem solving?

To foster aggressive social skills

To enhance their ability to cope with negative stimuli (correct)

To increase delinquent behavior

To prepare them for competitive sports

Which theory suggests that social stability contributes to conformity?

Classical Anomie/Strain Theory (correct)

Differential Opportunity Theory

Institutional Anomie Theory

General Strain Theory

According to Agnew's theories, what type of climate-related strain can contribute to higher crime rates?

An increase in public services

Food and freshwater shortages (correct)

Reduction in corporate profit

Increased social support

What is one potential consequence of extreme weather events mentioned in the content?

Strains leading to higher levels of individual crime Signup and view all the answers

What phenomenon is associated with the concept of 'status deprivation' in delinquent subcultures?

An inability to achieve societal goals Signup and view all the answers

Which theorist is associated with the idea of 'focal concerns of lower-class culture'?

Miller Signup and view all the answers

What is a suggested effect of climate change on societal structures?

Increased inequality Signup and view all the answers

Which theory would analyze the impact of societal structures on feelings of anomie?

Classical Anomie/Strain Theory Signup and view all the answers

What does concentrated disadvantage examine?

Economic indicators and social demographics Signup and view all the answers

How is social capital primarily measured?

Membership in clubs and community involvement Signup and view all the answers

Which researcher is known for linking socially disorganized neighborhoods to crime?

Kornhauser Signup and view all the answers

What are external factors in relation to crime rates, according to Veysey and Messner?

They sometimes influence crime rates more than social disorganization indicators. Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic of urban migration impacts social disorganization in cities?

The trend of middle-class residents moving to suburbs Signup and view all the answers

What primary economic variables do studies on social disorganization often examine?

Median family income and welfare payments Signup and view all the answers

Which theory suggests that social disorganization limits informal controls that prevent crime?

Kornhauser's social control theory Signup and view all the answers

What is collective efficacy primarily associated with?

Crime prevention through social cohesion Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary outcome of status deprivation according to the content provided?

Status frustration Signup and view all the answers

Which type of subculture is characterized by individuals who succeed neither socially nor criminally?

Retreatist Subculture Signup and view all the answers

What effect does the presence of adult role models have on the Conflict Subculture?

Contributes to social disorganization and violence Signup and view all the answers

Which focal concern is related to the idea of seeking thrills and engaging in risk-taking behaviors?

Excitement Signup and view all the answers

The Criminal Subculture is primarily associated with which type of neighborhood?

Lower-class neighborhoods with adult criminal influences Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT one of Miller's focal concerns?

Curiosity Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic best describes individuals in the Retreatist Subculture?

They have abandoned all goals and means of success. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of the Conflict Subculture's members?

They exhibit behavior that is tough, violent, and aggressive. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main focus of conflict theory in relation to criminal behavior?

The power struggle between competing social groups Signup and view all the answers

What type of crimes are characterized as political crimes in the context of conflict theory?

Law violations aimed at altering public policy or power relations Signup and view all the answers

What is a noted limitation of conflict theory according to the provided content?

It fails to explain a wide range of criminal activities Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes one of the policy implications of conflict theory?

It indicates that conflict is a central source of societal problems Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of law does the summary indicate it represents in society?

A reflection and impact on various social institutions Signup and view all the answers

How does climate change potentially influence wildlife crime?

By increasing insecurity as a catalyst for wildlife crime. Signup and view all the answers

What role can wildlife crime play in relation to climate change?

It can accelerate further climate change. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential to understand the interactions between climate change and wildlife crime?

To facilitate more effective and socially just policy interventions. Signup and view all the answers

What are some reactive adaptation strategies to climate-change related strains in terrestrial systems?

Increased poaching and illegal logging. Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect does conflict theory highlight in society?

Division into groups with competing ideas and values. Signup and view all the answers

What kind of behavioral responses might occur in fisheries due to climate-related strains?

Increased use of illegal fishing methods. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents a consequence of climate change on human behaviors toward natural resources?

Rise in retaliatory killing and illegal activities. Signup and view all the answers

What does the theoretical model discussed reflect in relation to climate change's impact?

The impacts of climate change on wildlife crime at the community level. Signup and view all the answers

Which variables were found to be significant in Model 2 regarding the Ban the Box law?

Male, age, and rape Signup and view all the answers

What was the reported decrease in repeat felony offending after the implementation of the Ban the Box law in Honolulu?

11.4% Signup and view all the answers

How did the establishment of the Ban the Box law impact repeat offending likelihood?

Lowered the odds by approximately 57% Signup and view all the answers

Which group is more likely to exhibit repeat offending according to the findings?

Individuals with prior convictions Signup and view all the answers

What central role does labeling theory attribute to social labels?

Facilitating future deviant behavior Signup and view all the answers

How did the Ban the Box law affect black and non-black ex-offenders?

Affected both groups similarly Signup and view all the answers

What aspect might reduce deterrence post-release according to the content?

Lack of prior criminal conviction Signup and view all the answers

Which independent variables were held constant when assessing the effect of the law on repeat offending?

Age and prior convictions Signup and view all the answers

What type of strain is identified by an individual's own personal experience?

Subjective Signup and view all the answers

Which policy implication focuses on fostering basic social changes to eliminate criminogenic features in society?

Creating broader social participation Signup and view all the answers

According to Agnew's prevention programs, what is one recommended strategy to reduce youth strain?

Provide social skills training Signup and view all the answers

Which type of strain is the result of negative experiences that an individual witnesses rather than personally endures?

Vicarious Signup and view all the answers

What approach does Mesner and Rosenfeld advocate for in relation to crime prevention?

Strengthening non-economic institutions Signup and view all the answers

What is one suggested method for increasing social support for youth according to contemporary anomie/strain theories?

Create counseling and advocacy programs Signup and view all the answers

Which type of strain involves individuals anticipating negative outcomes based on their experiences?

Anticipated Signup and view all the answers

What policy is NOT emphasized by contemporary anomie/strain theories?

Strengthening academic performance ties to economics Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary strength of labeling theory?

It highlights the unintended consequences of social control. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary critique of labeling theory?

It completely overlooks primary deviance. Signup and view all the answers

How does social disorganization theory (SDT) view crime?

As patterns emerging from community-level factors. Signup and view all the answers

What did early statistical studies of crime reveal about criminal behavior?

Certain socio-economic factors influence crime rates. Signup and view all the answers

Which researcher was instrumental in using statistics to examine crime patterns?

Adolphe Quetelet. Signup and view all the answers

What did Guerry's work contribute to the study of crime?

It introduced spatial analyses to understand crime distributions. Signup and view all the answers

What was a notable limitation noted in early statistical studies of crime?

They did not account for psychological variances among criminals. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary concerns of social disorganization theory?

Understanding the community level breakdown of social control. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary focus of Indigenous Environmental Justice (IEJ)?

Addressing forms of violence and injustice experienced by Indigenous people Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best reflects the relationship between Indigenous philosophies and environmental justice?

Indigenous philosophies must be acknowledged to define justice accurately. Signup and view all the answers

How did the Environmental Justice movement initiate?

From a toxic waste landfill site chosen in Warren County, North Carolina Signup and view all the answers

What does Indigenous Environmental Justice challenge concerning governance?

The legitimacy of global and national legal frameworks Signup and view all the answers

What course is included in the Environmental Justice and Policy Minor at UF?

Indigenous Environmental Justice, Decolonization, and Development in Latin America Signup and view all the answers

Why is distinct Indigenous environmental justice considered necessary?

To address specific injustices faced by Indigenous communities Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about environmental justice is true?

Understanding various notions of environmental justice is critical for effective advocacy. Signup and view all the answers

What issue does IEJ raise regarding traditional legal mechanisms?

They often overlook the needs of Indigenous peoples. Signup and view all the answers

What behavior reflects an individual who accepts cultural goals and institutionalized means according to Merton's theory?

Conformist Signup and view all the answers

Which type of behavior is characterized by giving up on both cultural goals and institutionalized means?

Retreatist Signup and view all the answers

In Merton's framework, which behavior involves maintaining commitment to success goals but using illegitimate means to achieve them?

Innovator Signup and view all the answers

Which behavior rejects both cultural goals and institutionalized means, often resulting in radical change?

Rebel Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect does Cohen's theory focus on in relation to juvenile delinquents?

Status deprivation related to middle-class standards Signup and view all the answers

What causes the state of anomie according to Merton's explanation?

Confusion due to social norms Signup and view all the answers

Which social behavior does a 'Ritualist' best exemplify in Merton's theory?

One who strictly adheres to norms while giving up on success Signup and view all the answers

What is a common outcome of status deprivation in Cohen's analysis of delinquent subcultures?

Formation of alternative subcultures Signup and view all the answers

Which behavior exemplifies a person who has fully abandoned the means to achieve cultural goals?

Retreatist Signup and view all the answers

According to Merton, which category includes individual responses that both accept and reject cultural goals?

Innovators and Ritualists Signup and view all the answers

How is primary deviance characterized in labeling theory?

Deviant act occurring prior to the labeling process Signup and view all the answers

What impact does labeling someone as deviant have according to the theory?

It increases the likelihood of further deviant behavior Signup and view all the answers

What concept emphasizes the role of societal perceptions in shaping individual identity?

Looking-glass self Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered a limitation of labeling theory in empirical application?

It overlooks the ongoing influence of variables after labeling Signup and view all the answers

In labeling theory, how is secondary deviance defined?

Deviance that follows the labeling process and is organized Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between school dropout rates and delinquency levels according to the provided literature?

Delinquency rates can fluctuate depending on the circumstances of dropping out. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the overall findings regarding the class-crime relationship?

Evidence does not strongly verify a direct class-crime relationship. Signup and view all the answers

What is one reason why gang members might not form a distinct subculture opposing conventional values?

They largely agree with conventional values and create justifications for their actions. Signup and view all the answers

What ambiguous effect does dropping out of school have on delinquent involvement?

The impact on delinquency can differ significantly based on personal circumstances. Signup and view all the answers

What did researchers find in terms of Cloward and Ohlin's three types of delinquent subcultures?

The major types could not be substantiated within specific neighborhood contexts. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes primary deviance in the labeling theory framework?

Inconsistent and infrequent deviant acts Signup and view all the answers

What does secondary deviance signify in the context of labeling theory?

Deviant acts with a clear organized motive due to social labeling Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of diversion programs in the juvenile justice system?

To divert individuals from the formal justice process for minor offenses Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes net-widening in juvenile diversion programs?

Involving more individuals in diversion programs than necessary Signup and view all the answers

What does decriminalization focus on in relation to juveniles?

Removing status offenders from the juvenile justice system's jurisdiction Signup and view all the answers

What belief does radical non-intervention embody regarding minor offenses?

It is better to tolerate minor offenses than risk labeling the offender Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements reflects a criticism of labeling theory?

It overemphasizes the impact of social labels on behavior Signup and view all the answers

Which juvenile diversion strategy focuses on minimizing formal legal processes for first-time, nonviolent offenders?

Pre-trial intervention Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors does NOT contribute to increased strain associated with climate change?

Stronger enforcement of crime laws Signup and view all the answers

Which theorist's work is primarily associated with the concept of differential opportunity in delinquent subcultures?

Cloward and Ohlin Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following consequences can arise from rising temperatures and sea levels as discussed in the context of crime?

Higher levels of corporate crime Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of crime does Messner and Rosenfield's Institutional Anomie Theory primarily address?

Societal values and crime Signup and view all the answers

What mechanism is linked to the decrease in social support due to climate-related strains?

Disruptions in community structures Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is a significant predictor of increased crime as suggested by Agnew's theories?

Forced migration due to climate events Signup and view all the answers

Which concept did Merton introduce in relation to social order and deviance?

Anomie Signup and view all the answers

What type of climate-related strain is linked to increased social conflict?

Food and water shortages Signup and view all the answers

What is formal social control primarily enforced by?

Legally authorized agents of the criminal justice system Signup and view all the answers

Which theory suggests that laws emerge from a general agreement in society?

Consensus Theory Signup and view all the answers

In the context of social control, what role does socialization play?

It teaches values, norms, and customs through examples Signup and view all the answers

What primary function does the law serve according to Functionalist Theory?

To resolve everyday disputes in society Signup and view all the answers

Conflict theory critiques which aspect of societal laws?

Their focus on power relationships Signup and view all the answers

What does informal social control typically involve?

Norms enforced by family, friends, and local groups Signup and view all the answers

According to Consensus Theory, how are laws viewed in relation to societal norms?

They reflect and reinforce societal norms and values Signup and view all the answers

What does conflict theory assert about the role of power in lawmaking?

Laws primarily serve the interests of dominant groups in society Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Concentrated disadvantage is a cluster of factors associated with crime, including poverty, single-parent households, welfare reliance, and racial minorities.
Social capital refers to community engagement, such as participation in clubs, volunteering, and political activities.
Collective efficacy is the perception of neighborhood residents' ability to work together to control crime.

The migration of middle-class residents, businesses, and industries from cities to suburbs has contributed to social disorganization within urban centers.
Research on social disorganization theory often relies on census data and economic variables, but it can be indirect and circular, using crime rates as an indicator of social disorganization.

Kornhauser (1978) proposed that disorganized neighborhoods experience higher crime rates due to their inability to maintain informal social control.
Bursik (1988) linked social disorganization to weakened informal social control within communities.
Sampson and Groves (1989) developed an empirical model of social disorganization.
Veysey and Messner (1999) found that external factors sometimes had a greater impact on crime rates than indicators of social disorganization.

Cloward and Ohlin: Differential Opportunity and Delinquent Subcultures

This theory examines how limited opportunities contribute to crime.
Three delinquent subcultures emerge:
- Criminal Subculture: Found in neighborhoods with adult criminal influences, where youth gangs commit crimes for financial gain.
- Conflict Subculture: Found in disorganized neighborhoods lacking adult role models, where youth gangs engage in violence and aggression.
- Retreatist Subculture: Composed of individuals who fail in both conventional society and criminal subcultures, turning to drugs or other forms of retreat.

Miller: Focal Concerns

Lower-class youth are shaped by six focal concerns:
- Trouble: Avoiding getting caught for wrongdoing.
- Toughness: Demonstrating physical strength and fearlessness.
- Smartness: Outsmarting and manipulating others.
- Excitement: Seeking thrills and risky behavior.
- Fatalism: Believing in fate and luck.
- Autonomy: Independence from authority.

Agnew: General Strain Theory

Strain refers to negative experiences that contribute to crime.
Climate change can act as a strain, increasing crime through various mechanisms:
- Increased Strain: Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, food and water shortages, and forced migration.
- Reduced Social Control: Disruption of community norms and social bonds.
- Reduced Social Support: Strain on social services and community resources.
- Beliefs/Values Favorable to Crime: Acceptance of deviant behavior as a coping strategy.
- Traits Conducive to Crime: Increased aggression and impulsivity.
- Opportunities for Crime: Scarcity of resources creating opportunities for criminal acts.

Conflict Theory

Conflict Theory of Criminal Behavior: Lawmaking, lawbreaking, and law enforcement are seen as power struggles between groups with competing interests.
Political Crimes: Law violations motivated by political goals or to influence the system.

Empirical Validity of Conflict Theory

Direct empirical testing of conflict theory is limited.
While some general observations are supported, further research is needed to assess the validity and scope of the theory.

Policy Implications of Conflict Theory

The theory suggests that conflict is inherent in society, but also a source of its problems.
While identifying conflict and inequalities, the theory often provides limited practical guidance beyond calling for reducing conflict.

Evaluation of Conflict Theory

Limited Scope: Only explains a narrow range of crimes, primarily political and economic offenses.

Ban the Box Law

Model 2 is statistically significant in considering the Ban the Box law, which reduces repeat offending in Honolulu.
Male and older defendants are more likely to be repeat offenders.
Rape offenders have a lower probability of having a prior criminal conviction.
The Ban the Box law decreased the odds of repeat offending by approximately 57%.
The law likely affected black and non-black ex-offenders similarly.

Labeling Theory

Labeling theory emphasizes the role of social labels in influencing future deviant behavior.
It gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s but faced criticism and lost favor.
Revised versions of labeling theory have been proposed.
It highlights the unintended consequences of social control, but ignores primary deviance and undervalues the influence of other factors on behavior.

Examines crime from a macro perspective, focusing on patterns within communities.
It posits that crime arises from breakdowns in social control and organization within a group.
The theory suggests that forces beyond individual delinquents, such as the structure of the city, contribute to crime.

Early Statistical Studies of Crime

Crime statistics collection began in the early 19th century, particularly in France.
Adolphe Quetelet used statistics to challenge the notion of free will in committing crimes.
He observed patterns in crime data, refuting the idea that crime was random.
Guerry published statistical maps with layers of data, including educational levels, illegitimate births, and charitable giving.
Quetelet and Guerry's work provided evidence for criminological theory, moving away from the idea that crime was solely due to poverty and lack of education.

Anomie (Strain Theories)

Defined as a state of normlessness or norm confusion in a society.
Classic Anomie/Strain theories include Merton's Social Structure and Anomie, Cohen's Status Deprivation and the Delinquent Subculture, Cloward and Ohlin's Differential Opportunity and Delinquent Subcultures, and Miller's Focal Concerns of Lower-Class Culture.

Examines individuals in American society who fail to achieve the American Dream.
It proposes five behavioral responses: Conformist, Innovator, Rebel, Retreatist, and Ritualist.

Merton's Five Behaviors

Conformist: Accepts societal goals and means.
Innovator: Accepts societal goals but uses illegitimate means to achieve them.
Ritualist: Gives up striving for success and focuses on adherence to norms.
Retreatist: Escapes societal norms and gives up on both goals and means.
Rebel: Rejects both societal goals and means and seeks to replace them with a new system.

Cohen: Status Deprivation and the Delinquent Subculture

Focuses on juveniles who struggle to meet middle-class standards.
It highlights pressure on individuals to join criminal or delinquent associations.

Agnew's Types of Strain

Subjective: Strain identified by the individual.
Objective: Strain universally recognized.
Vicarious: Strain observed in others.
Anticipated: Strain expected to occur.

Programs Based on Anomie and Subcultural Theories

Policy implications often advocate for social change to address the root causes of crime.
Programs include the Boston Mid-City Project and Mobilization for Youth.

Policy Implications of Contemporary Anomie/Strain Theories

Mesner and Rosenfeld emphasize strengthening non-economic institutions.
They suggest implementing pro-family economic policies, loosening ties between academic performance and economic success, limiting crime control costs, and promoting broader social and civic participation.
Agnew's prevention programs focus on reducing adversity for youth, providing social skills training, and increasing social support.

Environmental Justice

The concept of environmental justice emerged in 1982.
The Warren County, North Carolina, toxic waste landfill incident sparked the environmental justice movement.
It involves addressing environmental issues related to various forms of violence and injustice experienced by marginalized groups.
It questions global and national governance and law systems as they fail to protect Indigenous peoples and all life.

Indigenous Environmental Justice (IEJ)

A distinct form of environmental justice grounded in Indigenous philosophies, ontologies, and epistemologies.
It highlights the need for justice and equity in environmental issues affecting Indigenous communities.
IEJ necessitates the recognition of Indigenous perspectives and knowledge in addressing environmental challenges.