Sociology: Conflict and Feminist Theories

When minority groups gain power, economic resources, and political influence, it can lead to feelings of threat and competition among the dominant group.

The dominant group's reaction to minority group empowerment, often involving attempts to protect their privilege and power, sometimes leading to acts of suppression or violence against the minority group.

The first wave of feminism focused on gaining basic rights for women, including voting, education, and representation.

The second wave of feminism sought deeper social equality for women, demanding reproductive rights, equal protection from violence, and challenging societal norms and expectations.

The third wave of feminism emphasizes the diversity of women's experiences and challenges the idea of a single definition of femininity, focusing on intersectionality and the social construction of gender.

A theory that explains criminal behavior as a dynamic process across an individual's life. It emphasizes the role of social control and turning points in shaping criminal trajectories.

Significant events or transitions in life that can alter an individual's social bonds, opportunities, and control, impacting their likelihood of engaging in criminal behavior. Examples include marriage, employment, and military service.

A longitudinal study that followed 500 boys sent to a reform school in the 1930s, which provided valuable data for understanding the development of delinquency over the life course.

The process of reducing or ceasing criminal activity over time, often influenced by changes in life trajectory, social bonds, and opportunities.

A theory that sees society as divided into groups with competing interests and values. The dominant group uses its power to shape laws and enforce them in a way that benefits itself.

The process of teaching and learning values, norms, and beliefs within a society or group. This shapes how individuals behave and interact.

A theory that views laws as reflecting a general agreement in society about what is right and wrong. Laws are seen as representing shared values.

A theory that sees laws as serving a purpose for the greater good of society. Laws help maintain order, resolve conflicts, and control crime.

A group that holds significant power and influence in shaping laws and policies within a society. They often have control over resources and decision-making.

A theory that explains how crime control efforts increase as the size and influence of minority racial groups grow. It suggests fear and resentment drive these efforts.

A theory that examines how the criminal justice system (CJS) disadvantages women and perpetuates gender inequality. It highlights biases and systemic problems that affect women.

Theories that focus on how criminal behavior develops and changes over an individual's lifespan. They explore factors like age, social relationships, and turning points in influencing criminality.