Edwin Sutherland and Donald Cressey proposed the differential association theory. What is the first proposition of this theory?
A) Deviance is innate.
B) Deviance is learned.
C) Deviance is inherited.
D) Deviance is different.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The first proposition of the differential association theory is that deviance is learned. Sutherland and Cressey argued that individuals learn deviant behavior from their social interactions and environments, particularly through exposure to attitudes and values that support or justify such behavior. This learning occurs through a process of differential association, in which individuals are more likely to engage in deviance if their social networks involve more exposure to deviant norms than to conventional norms.

Edwin Sutherland and Donald Cressey Proposed the Differential Association Theory