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Discussion 4 Social Learning Theory

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Criminal Justice

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Prince Georges Community College

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Discussion 4: Social Learning Theory

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Social Learning Theory

The social learning theory studies the relationship between social interactions and crime

or deviant behavior. According to the theory, the probability of committing crime increases when

one interacts with social groups whose norms favor deviant behavior or do not conform to

societal standards and the law (Piquero, 2016). Additionally, individuals are likely to engage in

crime when they associate with people or groups that justify crime or delinquency. Still, the

theory asserts that a person is expected to commit a crime if they have observed that such

behavior did not attract punishment in the past or anticipate greater rewards for their actions than

the possible penalty they might receive (Piquero, 2016). According to this theory, social learning

occurs through interactions with friends, neighbors, schoolmates, teachers, law enforcers, the

law, and other peer groups.

Consequently, the differential association with people or peer groups determines whether

an individual will or will not embrace deviant behavior. Differential association implies that if

one associates with people or groups with favorable attitudes and beliefs towards the law and

societal norms, they are less likely to embrace deviant behavior (Piquero, 2016). However,

suppose the groups they interact with hold favorable beliefs and attitudes towards deviant

behavior, and are hostile to the law or accepted norms. In that case, such people are likely to

engage in crime. Further, the amount of time an individual spends with a group is a critical

determinant of the outcome of the interaction. For example, suppose an individual spends more

time with people who are supportive of criminal behavior than people who uphold the law and

societal norms. In that case, they are likely to embrace criminal conduct. Another crucial

component of the social learning theory is how a person's values, beliefs, and inclinations define

crime. According to the theory, the values and inclinations that a person considers more justified

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1 Discussion 4: Social Learning Theory Student's Name Institution Affiliation Course Professor's Name Date 2 Social Learning Theory The social learning theory studies the relationship between social interactions and crime or deviant behavior. According to the theory, the probability of committing crime increases when one interacts with social groups whose norms favor deviant behavior or do not conform to societal standards and the law (Piquero, 2016). Additionally, individuals are likely to engage in crime when they associate with people or groups that justify crime or delinquency. Still, the theory asserts that a person is expected to commit a crime if they have observed that such behavior did not attract punishment in the past or anticipate greater rewards for their actions than the possible penalty they might receive (Piquero, 2016). According to this theory, social learning occurs through interactions with friends, neighbors, schoolmates, teachers, law enforcers, the law, and other peer groups. Consequently, the differential association with people or peer groups determines whether an individual will or will not embrace deviant behavior. Differential association implies th ...
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