Deck 8: Differential Association

Question 1

Differential association theory states that criminal behavior

A) is biologically inherited.
B) is learned in social interaction.
C) results from associated strains.
D) is the result of low IQ.

Answer 1

is learned in social interaction.

Question 2

Learning of criminal behavior, according to Sutherland and Cressey, involves all of the following elements EXPECT:

A) motives and attitudes.
B) rationalizations for crime.
C) techniques of committing crime.
D) lax parental discipline.

Answer 2

lax parental discipline.

Question 3

Sutherland and Cressey suggest that American society

A) offers a clear and consistent definition for adhering to laws.
B) offers conflicting definitions regarding conformity with legal codes.
C) causes crime because of differential opportunities.
D) could activate the media to alleviate crime.

Answer 3

offers conflicting definitions regarding conformity with legal codes.

Question 4

Differential association theory states that a person becomes delinquent because

A) of an excess of childhood experiences such as abuse/neglect.
B) of a lack of social skills and the ability to interact with others.
C) one lives in a socially disorganized environment with few opportunities.
D) of an excess of definitions favorable to law violation.

Question 5

Differential associations may vary in all of the following ways EXCEPT

A) complexity.
B) intensity.
C) duration.
D) frequency.

Question 6

Differential social organization refers to the fact that

A) high crime rates reflect social disorganization.
B) communities have either favorable or unfavorable definitions of criminal behavior.
C) most communities are organized for both criminal and anti-criminal conduct.
D) differential rates of crime are a reflection of general needs and values.

Question 7

Discuss the main elements of differential association theory and compare it with other theories which have been discussed regarding the nature of deviant behavior. What do you see as its main advantages and disadvantages as an explanation of deviance?

Question 8

Develop a comprehensive intervention program for countering delinquency based on differential association. Discuss the positives and negatives for your program.

Question 9

According to differential association theory, why does one youth who is intelligent, sociable, outgoing, active and athletic become a gang member while another youth with the same qualities becomes a model student-athlete?