The basic premise of Edwin Sutherland’s theory of differential association is that criminal behavior is
Inherited.
The result of labeling.
Learned.
Loose social bonds.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is Learned.
Edwin Sutherland’s theory of differential association suggests that criminal behavior is not biologically inherited nor the result of labeling or weak social bonds. Instead, criminal behavior is learned through interaction with others. Sutherland proposed that people learn criminal behavior in the same way they learn non-criminal behavior: through communication and association with others who promote criminal values. This theory emphasizes the role of social environments in shaping individuals’ actions and beliefs.
According to differential association theory, individuals are more likely to engage in criminal behavior if they are exposed to a greater number of people who favor criminal activities than those who conform to societal laws. The key point here is that criminal behavior is not innate; it is a learned behavior that results from the influence of peers and social groups.
Sutherland argued that the learning process involves acquiring specific techniques for committing crimes, as well as the attitudes, motivations, and rationalizations that support such behavior. For example, a person who frequently interacts with individuals who view stealing as acceptable may learn to justify theft or even adopt it as a normal way to achieve goals.
The theory also highlights the concept of definitions, meaning that individuals learn whether certain actions are considered right or wrong based on the definitions they adopt from their social circles. When a person is exposed to more pro-criminal definitions than anti-criminal ones, they are more likely to engage in criminal behavior.
In summary, Sutherland’s theory of differential association explains criminal behavior as a learned activity rather than something that is biologically predetermined, a result of social labeling, or caused by weak social bonds. The focus is on the influence of one’s social environment and the behaviors learned through interactions with others.