Exploring the Key Tenets of Cultural Deviance Theory: A Comprehensive Overview
Cultural deviance theory is a criminology theory that focuses on how cultural values shape criminal behavior. In this theory, crime is viewed as a form of adaptation to social conditions. This article provides an in-depth overview of the key tenets of cultural deviance theory.
Introduction
The cultural deviance theory is a popular criminology theory that emerged in the 1950s and 1960s. It is also known as the subcultural theory or the lower-class culture theory. This theory is based on the premise that crime is not a result of structural conditions but rather a response to cultural values and beliefs.
The Main Tenets
The cultural deviance theory has four main tenets that explain why individuals engage in criminal behavior. These tenets include:
1. Subcultural Values
Subcultural values are norms and values that develop within certain groups of people. These groups can be based on race, religion, or class. These subcultures have their own unique values and beliefs, which may differ from the mainstream culture. Those who adopt these subcultural values are more likely to engage in criminal behavior.
For instance, in the inner-city neighborhoods in the US, the subcultural value of “street toughness” is prevalent. This value emphasizes the importance of being tough, aggressive, and not letting others push you around. Individuals who subscribe to this value are more likely to engage in gang-related criminal activities.
2. Differential Association
This tenet suggests that criminal behavior is learned through interaction with others who engage in criminal behavior. Individuals who associate with people who engage in criminal behavior are more likely to learn and adopt deviant behavior.
For example, a teenager who has friends who are involved in drug use is more likely to try drugs as well, as they have been exposed to the behavior through their social network.
3. Anomie
Anomie is a condition that arises when social norms and values become weakened or break down altogether. This can occur during times of social upheaval, economic recession, or rapid social change. Anomie creates a sense of normlessness and can lead to an increase in criminal behavior.
For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a breakdown in social norms due to the lockdown measures, job losses, and decreased social interactions. This led to an increase in domestic violence, theft, and other types of criminal behavior.
4. Social Disorganization
The final tenet of cultural deviance theory suggests that crime is more prevalent in areas with high levels of social disorganization. Socioeconomic factors such as poverty, high levels of unemployment, and low levels of education can lead to social disorganization.
For instance, in areas with high levels of poverty, there may be a lack of community resources and a breakdown in social networks, which can lead to an increase in criminal activity.
Conclusion
The cultural deviance theory provides an alternative perspective to traditional criminology theories that focus on structural factors such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of social mobility. This theory posits that criminal behavior is a product of cultural values and beliefs. By understanding the key tenets of cultural deviance theory, we can better understand why certain individuals are more likely to engage in criminal behavior and develop effective strategies to prevent crime.
