According to Sutherland's differential association theory, people become criminals when they
A) are more strongly socialized to break the law than to obey it.
B) are genetically predisposed to deviate.
C) lack socially approved means to realize socially established goals.
D) lack proper attachment to others.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sutherland's differential association theory states that people become criminals when they are more strongly socialized to break the law than to obey it. This means that individuals learn criminal behavior through their social interactions and associations with others who already engage in criminal activity. The theory does not attribute criminal behavior to genetics, lack of socially approved means, or lack of attachment to others.

According to Sutherland's Differential Association Theory, People Become Criminals When