Gangs And Criminal Behavior

4. Describe how some of our associations have more influence on our behavior than others, according to Sutherland. How could they potentially lead to criminal behaviors? Chapter 5.
Sutherland believed that deviant behavior is learned and used three theories from the Chicago School to explain his theory. The theories were culture conflict, ecological, and symbolic interactionism. Sutherland expressed that just because one associates with criminals does not mean they will engage in criminal behavior, they must also have some sort of close bonded relationship. He also suggested that individuals are following rules that are considered acceptable in their culture but not in mainstream society’s such as it being against the law. Aside from criminal

Gangs have their own value systems and often involve many forms of violence as a way of handling situations. Within this subculture, the behaviors of those in this group can be justified and explained as a part of the culture itself. Although, they may have values and rules similar to those of mainstream society, they are slightly different. When talking about gangs it is also imperative to mention delinquency. Delinquency and gangs go hand in hand because that is what this subculture values. It is important to mention that violence is not the only form of delinquency that gangs are involved in. They also take part in other delinquent behaviors such as drug dealing, rape, and even vandalism. These are behaviors that are considered wrong and illegal in mainstream society however when in the gang subculture, these crimes are considered to be normal. Most gangs are violent and involve drug dealers but this is seen as normal or part of their “life”. In addition, rape is often viewed as a good thing for example girls are often gang raped if they want to be a part of the gang and it is seen as fine even if this does cause issues for the girl later on in life. Vandalism is more of a way to show other gangs that one gang in particular owns this area somewhat similar to the way that parking spots are reserved for people such as doctors in the parking garage. The

I feel many people are unaware that they even have other options other than engaging in delinquency because they get so used to it that they cannot imagine living any other way. For example, the Project Head Start program used to give lower class children the same chances as middle class children may only work for some. These children have to go home at some point and while at home they are told, they need to sell drugs or their bodies because getting a job is nearly impossible. The people who tell children this are unaware of the other options themselves and they carry this idea down to the children, even though there are other options available. For the education program that is meant to stop violence which includes where the community gets together to sell their guns. This is not very effective because those who live in an area where they need to be violent in order to live are still going to engage in violence. The only real way to conquer it would be offer equal housing and job opportunities. There are many people who just felt that school is not for them and still managed to graduate high school but did not go on to college. If they were aware that they could get a better job with just a high school diploma, they would do that other than sell drugs or prostitute. The sad thing about the world is many issues revolve around money and well if someone does not have money they