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What Is The Cultural Deviance Theory Of Middle-Class Crime

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A structural theorist would likely explain the presence of low-class and middle-class crime as a result of societal and economic factors that create different opportunities and constraints for individuals in these social classes. Low-class crime may be viewed as a response to economic deprivation and limited opportunities for social mobility. Structural theorists might argue that individuals in poverty face significant obstacles to achieving financial stability and may turn to crime as a means of survival or a way to acquire goods they cannot afford through legal means. Not having the access to quality education, job opportunities, and adequate housing in poor neighborhoods can also contribute to a sense of hopelessness and desperation that may lead to criminal behavior. On the other hand, …show more content…

This theory suggests that certain subcultures may promote and legitimize criminal behavior as a means of achieving success or respect within the group. In the context of middle-class crime, the theory might suggest that some individuals from middle-class backgrounds may be influenced by a subculture that values material success and status above all else and views engaging in white-collar crime as a means of achieving these goals. These individuals may view illegal activities such as fraud, embezzlement, or insider trading as a way to gain financial success or maintain their social status. Furthermore, cultural deviance theory highlights the role of socialization in shaping individuals' behavior. If individuals are socialized within a subculture that values material success above all else, they may be more likely to engage in criminal behavior as a means of achieving these goals. Therefore, cultural deviance theory provides a potential explanation for why some middle-class individuals may engage in white-collar crime. Now using cultural deviance theory what would be one type of a low-class

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