1. Copyright © 2005 Pearson Education Canada Inc.
Chapter 8
The Meaning
of Crime:
Social Structure
Perspective
Copyright © 2005 Pearson Education Canada Inc.

2. Sociological Theories
Crime is a result of an individual’s location
within the structure of society.
Crime is the end product of various social
processes, especially inappropriate
socialization and social learning.
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3. Social Structure Perspective
Crime is explained by reference to the
institutional structure of society.
Ecological Theories
Strain Theories
Culture Conflict Theories
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4. Social Structure Theories
The Chicago School
Criminal activity is associated with urban
transition zones which, because of the social
turmoil or social disorganization that
characterizes them, were typified by lower
property values, impoverished lifestyles, and
a general lack of privacy.
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5. Social Structure Theories
Strain Theory
Delinquency is a form of adaptive,
problem-solving behaviour usually committed in response to problems involving frustrating and undesirable social conditions.
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6. Social Structure Theories
Differential Opportunity
Legitimate opportunities for success
Illegitimate opportunities for success
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7. Social Structure Theories
Reaction Formation
The process in which a person openly
rejects that which he or she wants,
or aspires to, but cannot obtain or
achieve.
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8. Social Structure Theories
Culture Conflict Theory
The root cause of criminality can be found
in a clash of values between different social
groups over what is acceptable or proper
behaviour.
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9. Social Structure Theories
Subcultural Theory
Emphasizes the contribution made by
variously socialized cultural groups
to crime.
Focal Concerns
excitement
fate
autonomy
trouble
toughness
smartness
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10. Social Structure Theories
Violent Subcultures
Violence is a learned form of adaptation
to certain problematic life circumstances.
For participants in violent subcultures
violence can be a way of life.
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11. Policy Implications Include initiatives that not only provide
new opportunities, but also change the
fundamental arrangements of society
through direct social action.
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