what are the strengths and weakness of modernization theory
Edwin Sutherland
Edwin Sutherland
According to the "Intro to Criminology" book it says that Edwin Sutherland developed the Differential association Theory in 1939.
Sutherland's differential association theory emphasizes the role of social interactions in the development of criminal behavior, highlighting that criminality is learned through communication and exposure to deviant values. A key strength is its focus on the social context of crime, which provides insight into the influence of peer groups and environments. However, a significant weakness is its lack of consideration for individual factors, such as biology or psychology, that may also contribute to criminal behavior. Additionally, it can be challenging to empirically measure the specific influences of differential associations in real-world scenarios.
No, Differential Association theory is a micro-level theory that focuses on how individuals learn criminal behavior through interactions with others in their social environment, such as family, peers, and media. It examines the process of social learning and how it influences individual behavior.
The sociologist who used the term "differential association" is Edwin Sutherland. He developed the theory as a way to explain how individuals learn deviant behavior through interactions with others.
Differential association theory is a sociological theory that suggests individuals learn deviant behavior from those they associate with, particularly through close relationships and social interactions. The theory emphasizes the role of social environments in shaping individuals' attitudes and behaviors towards crime and deviance. It posits that exposure to favorable attitudes and definitions of criminal behavior increases the likelihood of individuals engaging in such behaviors.
It's strength is that it fits the facts, and you can see it in action (resistant germs, breeding of animals), and we know how it works (genetics). There is no specific weakness. You can argue for missing links but that's mostly silly. There are no facts that contradict it.
Differential association theory is called a learning theory because it posits that criminal behavior is learned through interactions with others rather than being an inherent trait. According to this theory, individuals acquire values, norms, and techniques related to criminality from their associations with peers and social groups. The frequency, duration, and intensity of these interactions influence the likelihood of adopting criminal behavior, emphasizing the role of socialization in the learning process.
weakness of contingency and system theory
A theory of criminality based on the principle that an individual becomes delinquent because of an excess of definitions learned that are favorable to violation of law over definitions learned that are unfavorable to violation of law.