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Questions and Answers
Differential association theory emphasizes that criminal behavior is primarily determined by genetics.
Differential association theory emphasizes that criminal behavior is primarily determined by genetics.
False
According to the theory, criminal behaviors are learned more frequently within certain groups based on the concepts of frequency, duration, and intensity.
According to the theory, criminal behaviors are learned more frequently within certain groups based on the concepts of frequency, duration, and intensity.
True
Learning persistence over time is related to the concept of frequency in differential association theory.
Learning persistence over time is related to the concept of frequency in differential association theory.
False
According to differential association theory, high emotional intensity attached to learning experiences has no impact on shaping values and conduct.
According to differential association theory, high emotional intensity attached to learning experiences has no impact on shaping values and conduct.
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Gang members may engage in criminal activities more frequently than children who attend school according to differential association theory.
Gang members may engage in criminal activities more frequently than children who attend school according to differential association theory.
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The longer someone spends around individuals who promote criminal activities, the weaker the associations with such behaviors according to differential association theory.
The longer someone spends around individuals who promote criminal activities, the weaker the associations with such behaviors according to differential association theory.
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Differential association theory focuses on the role of observational learning in developing aggressive acts.
Differential association theory focuses on the role of observational learning in developing aggressive acts.
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Jake's close connections with criminally oriented peers will inevitably turn him into a full-time burglar according to differential association theory.
Jake's close connections with criminally oriented peers will inevitably turn him into a full-time burglar according to differential association theory.
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Social learning theory and differential association theory both emphasize the importance of modeling in influencing behaviors.
Social learning theory and differential association theory both emphasize the importance of modeling in influencing behaviors.
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Differential association theory and social learning theory have no common ground in their approach to understanding behavior.
Differential association theory and social learning theory have no common ground in their approach to understanding behavior.
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Differential association requires considering multiple factors simultaneously rather than relying on a single element to shape deviant behavior.
Differential association requires considering multiple factors simultaneously rather than relying on a single element to shape deviant behavior.
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In the scenario mentioned, Jake's friends mainly discuss ways to prevent crimes and promote law-abiding behavior.
In the scenario mentioned, Jake's friends mainly discuss ways to prevent crimes and promote law-abiding behavior.
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Study Notes
Understanding Differential Association Theory
Developed by sociologist Edwin H. Sutherland during the mid-20th century, differential association theory offers insights into how people learn criminal behavior through their interactions with others. This influential perspective shifts our focus away from natural predispositions towards crime and instead emphasizes the social processes that shape our actions, beliefs, and attitudes when it comes to breaking the law.
Key Concepts
The core premise of differential association theory rests on three main components:
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Frequency: Criminal behaviors are learned more frequently within certain groups compared to other societal contexts. For example, gang members might engage in theft and violence much more often than children who attend school regularly.
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Duration: Learning persists over time; thus, some individuals spend longer periods around those who promote criminal activities, leading to stronger associations with such behaviors.
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Intensity: Strength varies according to the emotional intensity attached to the learning experiences, which may affect both prosocial and antisocial outcomes. Encounters characterized by high emotion tend to have a more profound impact on shaping one's values and conduct, whether positive or negative.
How Differential Association Works
To understand how this process unfolds, consider the following scenario: A teenager named Jake spends most of his free time hanging out with his friends who also enjoy stealing expensive items. Over several months, they repeatedly discuss ways to pull off successful heists without getting caught, share tips and tricks, and even practice their skills together. In this situation, Jake is exposed to strong associates who consistently reinforce criminal norms and behavior patterns, ultimately increasing the likelihood of him incorporating these practices into his daily life.
However, just because Jake has developed close connections with criminally oriented peers does not mean he will inevitably turn into a full-time burglar: Other influences must also come into play, including negative relationships, supportive family structures, and accessibility to alternative lifestyles. As a result, differential association requires considering multiple factors simultaneously rather than treating any single element as exclusively determinant in shaping one's deviant behavior.
Connections With Sociallearning Theory
While distinct theories, differential association shares common ground with Bandura's social learning theory due to their mutual interest in observational learning and its role in developing aggressive acts. Both approaches highlight how modeling plays a crucial part in fostering anti-social conduct as well as pro-social conduct—the difference being that differential association focuses primarily on specific delinquent behaviors, while social learning theory stresses broader moral principles. Taken together, these two theories offer valuable complementary explanations to aid researchers and practitioners in understanding and intervening against disruptive behaviors.
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Description
Explore the core concepts and workings of differential association theory, which explains how individuals learn criminal behavior through social interactions. Learn about the key components of frequency, duration, and intensity, and how these factors shape one's propensity for criminal activities. Discover the connections between differential association theory and social learning theory, highlighting the importance of modeling and observational learning in developing both anti-social and pro-social behaviors.
