SOCIAL DIFFERENTIAL ASSOCIATION THEORY

The differential association provides the context in which

learning occurs. According to the theory, the most important Lesson Summary
contexts for learning criminal behavior include peer groups and
family units, though varying entities such as schools, neighbors, Dr. Edwin Sutherland created the differential association theory. The theory
was an aid in understanding deviant behavior. Criminology has used this theory
and media also provide alternative settings where some to aid in understanding deviant behavior since 1939. The theory has nine key
learning of criminal behavior may ensue. There are two principles:
fundamental aspects of differential association, namely the
behavioral-interactional and normative dimensions. The 1. Deviant behavior is learned.
behavioral-interactional dimension refers to the direct and 2. One is influenced by communicating with friends.
3. One follows the steps of their close friend.
indirect interactions and associations with individuals that 4. Learned criminal behavior is two parts: committing the crime and
engage in delinquent activities. justifying the crime.
5. Deviants commit crimes because their friends do.
According to Sutherland, all important forms of human 6. Legal code motivates criminals to commit crimes.
behavior, including criminal behavior, are learned. Just like you 7. Deviants continue criminal activity for praise and status.
learn how to ride a bike, read, or cook, you also learn how to 8. Deviants begin criminal behavior by imitating their mentor.
9. Deviants commit crimes to meet their basic needs.
commit a crime. And so, if we want to understand crime and
criminal behavior, we need to look at how people learn things.
The individual-level hypothesis of differential association theory can now be
“interaction”
stated. According to Matsuda, a person will engage in criminal behavior if the
following three conditions are met: A-LIC-SI
• 1. The person has learned the requisite skills and techniques
for committing the crime. A- DAPTATION
• 2. The person has learned an excess of definitions favorable
L- EARNING
to crime over unfavorable to crime.
• 3. The person has the objective opportunity to carry out the I- NFLUENCE
crime.
C- OMMUNCATION

S- OCIALIZATION

I- NTERACTION
SOCIAL DIFFERENTIAL ASSOCIATION THEORY