Social learning and social structure: a general theory of crime and deviance

TLDR

Social learning theory combines Sutherland’s differential association with behavioral learning theory and is widely used to explain criminal and deviant behavior, though it is often misinterpreted. This book offers the first comprehensive, authoritative volume that reviews the background, concepts, development, modifications, and empirical tests of social learning theory. Akers traces the intellectual history of the theory, reviews research on its correlates and predictors, and proposes an integrated model linking social structure to individual conduct. He concludes by outlining the theory’s implications for criminology and public policy, and the book is positioned as a valuable resource for professionals and students.

Abstract

The social learning theory of crime integrates Edwin H. Sutherlands differential association theory with behavioral learning theory. It is a widely accepted and applied approaches to criminal and deviant behavior. However, it is also widely misinterpreted, misstated, and misapplied. This is the first single volume, in-depth, authoritative discussion of the background, concepts, development, modifications, and empirical tests of social learning theory. Akers begins with a personal account of Sutherlands involvement in criminology and the origins of his influential perspective. He then traces the intellectual history of Sutherlands theory as well as social learning theory, providing a comprehensive explanation of how each theory approaches illegal behavior. Akers reviews research on various correlates and predictors of crime and delinquency that may be used as operational measures of differential association, reinforcement, and other social learning concepts. Akers proposes a new, integrated theory of social learning and social structure that links group differences in crime to individual conduct. He concludes with a cogent discussion of the implications of social learning theory for criminology and public policy. Now available in paperback, with a new introduction by the author, this volume will be invaluable to professionals and for use in courses in criminology and deviance.