Albert Cohen's subcultural theory of delinquency provides insight into the sociological roots of criminal behavior. It explains how marginalized working-class youth form delinquent subcultures with their own norms, leading to behaviors like vandalism and truancy. Cohen's concept of status frustration reveals the challenges these youths face in achieving societal expectations, resulting in the formation of alternative values within their subcultures.
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Sociological investigations explore the multifaceted social factors that contribute to criminal behavior
Influence on Individuals
Societal structures can shape the motivations and actions of individuals, especially those marginalized, to commit crimes
Impact on Delinquent Behavior
Societal structures can have a significant impact on the development of delinquent behavior
Albert Cohen's work in the sociology of crime and deviance sheds light on the role of societal structures in influencing criminal behavior
Albert Cohen was born in Boston and pursued his academic interests, obtaining a Master's degree from Indiana University and a PhD from Harvard University
Cohen was mentored by criminology giants such as Edwin H. Sutherland and Robert K. Merton, which greatly influenced his understanding of the field
Cohen's academic career included tenures at Indiana University and the University of Connecticut, and he was honored with the prestigious Edwin H. Sutherland Award by the American Society of Criminology
Cohen's subcultural theory addressed shortcomings in existing criminological theories, such as Merton's strain theory
Cohen observed that delinquency was often a group phenomenon, particularly among working-class males
Cohen's subcultural theory posits that status frustration among working-class youth can lead to the development of delinquent subcultures with their own norms and values
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Role of societal structures in crime
Societal structures influence individuals, especially marginalized, contributing to criminality.
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Albert Cohen's contribution to criminology
Cohen examined societal influences on crime, advancing understanding of deviance and social control.
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Impact of social environment on delinquency
Social environments shape motivations/actions of individuals, leading to delinquent behavior.
