Introduction: Criminologists use theories to help them better understand crime. Two theories that are useful to criminologists are the differential association theory and the general strain theory. These theories can be especially helpful in determining the cause of crime, such as violent offenses and vehicle theft. There are three of the same components that fall under each crime theory. Firstly, certain individuals are more likely to fall within each theory. Secondly, there are specific crimes that are more likely to occur under each theory. Lastly, how a person finds themselves under a theory is important. Some may be raised to become more likely to fit a theory, while others may be influenced by the environment around them. Either way, …show more content…
This theory would combine the idea that strain will create anger which would later lead to individuals acting out with crime from the general strain theory. It would also include the idea in the differential association theory that states that behavior is learned from the individuals that one holds closest to him or her. The general strain theory would take the intimate relationships component and instead of feeding off their criminal activity, they will feed off one another’s feelings and opinions. The general strain theory would offer the component that the crimes committed will be violent rather than harmless theft. This crime can inform researchers about who is likely to commit crimes, what crimes are likely to be committed, and how an individual may find themselves committing crimes. The general strain of differential association theory has the same three categories of components. Firstly, there are child specific individuals who will fall under this theory. Younger adults and juveniles are more likely to fall under this theory. This is due to the pressure that society puts on