Subcultural theories Flashcards
How does Cohen’s (1971) subcultural theory explain C&D?
Some people can’t get what they want or need from legal and/or respected means in their culture
These people reject the majority culture and form their own subcultures which meet their needs better and improve their self-esteem
What is status frustration?
The feeling that you’re powerless and not well-respected because you’re unsuccessful
What are delinquent subcultures?
Groups of people who feel status frustration and deal with it by becoming criminal and/or deviant
How do subcultures explain C&D?
Subcultures have their own rules so members build self-esteem they couldn’t get in their normal life
This explains why many criminals carry on offending and get worse over time
How does Cloward & Ohlin’s (1960) subcultural theory explain C&D?
Cloward and Ohlin wanted to look at working class youth subcultures specifically
They felt “delinquent” was too broad for these people, who were under extra strain and even less respected in a capitalist society
What are Cloward & Ohlin’s (1960) three types of working class subculture?
Criminal subcultures - commit utilitarian crimes to get money or status
Conflict subcultures - commit aggressive crimes targeted at those who are seen to represent their oppression
Retreatist subcultures - these criminals failed in “normal” society and have also been rejected by other subcultures, they become deviants and suffer
