The theory that best explains criminal behavior is the differential association theory. This theory says that individuals base their behaviors on their associations and interaction with others. This best explains criminal behavior because it explains why and how criminals learn their behaviors. Children who grow up with criminals as parents may learn that some crimes are okay to do compared to children who grow with parents teaching them that crimes are not okay. These children will also learn the techniques of stealing or other crimes. Children can also learn criminal behaviors from members in their community. If a child lives in a neighborhood where there are gangs and violence they will think that it's normal for people to have guns and