LS222 Lecture 6: LS 222 Lecture 6
20 Aug 2016
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Document Summary
Major assumptions: most delinquent behaviour occurs within a group/gang setting. If acting alone, thought to still be influenced by peers: delinquency = low class, male phenomenon. Explanations concentrated on the social nature of delinquency: similar to social disorganization and anomie/strain theories. Acts committed for the hell of it not for financial gain. Similar to merton: delinquency caused by blocked goals. Unlike merton: these lower class boys aren"t only concerned with monetary success; they want to achieve the broader goal of middle class status: this would gain respect from others and financial success. Youth disadvantaged to achieve that success (especially in gaining status in conventional institutions: particularly disadvantaged in school compared to middle class peers. Success/failure in school is important for path to delinquency. Social class membership is associated with social values / lifestyles. Childrearing: in middle class and lower class = different: lower class child likely taught that behaviour is spontaneous and aggressive.
