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 argues that criminal behavior is not inherent, nor is it the result of societal labeling or weak social bonds. Instead, Sutherland posits that criminal behavior is learned through interactions with others. According to his theory, individuals learn criminal behavior in much the same way they learn any other behavior—through communication, association, and shared experiences with others who engage in or condone criminal activity.
The key aspect of Sutherland’s theory is the idea that individuals are more likely to engage in criminal behavior if they are exposed to more associations with people who have favorable attitudes towards crime. For instance, if a person is surrounded by peers or family members who approve of illegal acts or even partake in them, that individual is more likely to adopt similar behaviors. The learning process involves not just the techniques of committing crimes, but also the values and justifications that make criminal behavior acceptable.
Sutherland’s theory disputes earlier ideas that criminal behavior is a result of biological factors or inevitable due to a person’s socio-economic background. It places more emphasis on the influence of social environment and relationships. This theory also shifts the focus from individuals being passive victims of labeling or societal stigmas, to active learners who internalize the norms of their social circles. Therefore, criminal behavior is seen as a learned trait, shaped by an individual’s social context, rather than a predestined or inherited condition.