Social structure theories associated with crime and criminal conduct

This research paper explores the social structure theories associated with crime and criminal conduct. It looks at how these theories can help in the understanding and ultimate prevention of crime by criminal justice agencies.

The first section looks at what social structure theory is and how it can be used to explain crime. The second section looks at the different types of social structure theories that have been proposed, including anomie theory, strain theory, subcultural theory, and control theory. The third section looks at how these theories can be used by criminal justice agencies to prevent crime.

Social structure theory is a theoretical perspective that views society as being made up of different groups that are unequal in terms of power and resources (Hagan, 2006). This inequality creates tension and conflict between groups, which can lead to crime. Social structure theory has its roots in the work of Karl Marx, who believed that crime was a result of the unequal distribution of wealth and power in society (Marx, 1867).

Social structure theories associated with crime and criminal conduct can be used to explain why some people are more likely to engage in criminal behavior than others. These theories suggest that people from disadvantaged backgrounds are more likely to commit crimes because they have fewer opportunities and are more likely to feel frustrated and angry. This can lead them to turn to criminal activity as a way of making money or getting revenge against those who they feel have wronged them.

There are several different types of social structure theories that have been proposed, each with its own unique perspective on why crime occurs. These theories include anomie theory, strain theory, subcultural theory, and control theory.

Anomie theory was first proposed by Emile Durkheim in the late 19th century (Durkheim, 1897). This theory suggests that crime is a result of the breakdown of social norms and values. When people do not have a clear sense of right and wrong, they are more likely to engage in criminal behavior. Anomie can be caused by things like poverty, unemployment, and social exclusion.

Strain theory was first proposed by Robert Merton in the 1940s (Merton, 1938). This theory suggests that people engage in criminal behavior because they are under strain or stress due to their socio-economic status. People from lower-class backgrounds are more likely to commit crimes because they have fewer opportunities and are more likely to feel frustrated and angry.

Subcultural theory was first proposed by Albert Cohen in the 1950s (Cohen, 1955). This theory suggests that people engage in criminal behavior because they belong to a subculture that values violence and crime. This subculture is often found in disadvantaged inner-city areas where there is a lack of opportunity and social cohesion.

Control theory was first proposed by Travis Hirschi in the 1970s (Hirschi, 1969). This theory suggests that people engage in criminal behavior because they do not feel attached to mainstream society and do not believe that its rules and laws apply to them. This can be due to things like poverty, social exclusion, and a lack of opportunities.

These theories can be used by criminal justice agencies to prevent crime. Each theory provides a different perspective on why crime occurs, which can be used to develop targeted prevention strategies. For example, if anomie theory is used to explain crime, then prevention strategies should focus on restoring social norms and values. If strain theory is used to explain crime, then prevention strategies should focus on reducing socio-economic inequality.