Case Studies

Explore two different case studies that highlight the relevance of social influence on criminal activity. These real-life examples will help you understand the impact of social dynamics on criminal behavior.

Case Study 1: Influence of Peer Pressure

In this case study, we delve into how peer pressure can lead individuals to engage in criminal activities to gain acceptance within their social circle. By examining the role of peer influence on criminal behavior, we aim to shed light on the power of social norms in shaping actions. Through a detailed examination of several instances where adolescence succumbled to the pressures exerted by their peers, we observe a clear correlation between the desire for belonging and the willingness to partake in unlawful behaviors. For example, in a high school setting, a group of friends may normalize shoplifting as an exciting thrill, leading an otherwise law-abiding student to partake in the act to avoid social outcast. This scenario illustrates how social norms, established within group, and shape, individual actions, prompting them to prioritize acceptance over moral considerations. By understanding these relationships, we can better address the underlining factors that drive used towards crime and develop targeted interventions that promote positive social influences.

Case Study 2: Impact of Conformity

Through this case study, we analyze how conformity to group norms can influence individuals to commit criminal acts they wouldn't typically engage in. By understanding the pressures to conform, we aim to provide insights into preventing criminal behavior driven by social influence. We focus on a group of young adults who, despite having no prior history of delinquency, found themselves participating in vandalism, after being accepted into a social circle that glorified such behavior. The initial excitement of belonging to a group led to a gradual erosion of their personal values, as a thrill of conformity overshadowed their moral judgments. This analysis highlights, the powerful psychological mechanisms that play, where the desire for acceptance can override, individual reasoning, pushing individuals towards actions they might typically reject. By discrediting these dynamics, we seek to uncover effective strategies for prevention, emphasizing the importance of fostering environments that promote healthy, social norms, and encourage resistance to negative influences. Understanding these pressures is crucial for developing interventions aimed at reducing crime driven by social conformity.

Strain Theory

Merton's Strain Theory explains how social pressures can lead people to commit crimes. According to Robert K. Merton, society sets goals, like achieving wealth and success, and provides ways to reach those goals, such as education and jobs. However, when people cannot access these legitimate means-often due to economic or social barriers- they feel "strain" because they can't achieve the goals set by society. This train can lead to different responses: some may conform and follow the rules, while others might choose to innovate by using illegal, means to achieve their goals. Others might give up on the goals altogether, but still follow the rules, or they might reject both the goals and the means. Merton's theory emphasizes that crime can be a reaction to these frustrations and highlights the need to address social inequalities to reduce criminal behavior.

Case Study 1

A single parent home causes strain that in turn makes it more probable that a teenager will turn to delinquency.

Case Study 2

An individual is unable to afford the latest technology. They may then turn to shoplifting in order to possess the same material possessions as their peers.

Case Study 3

An individual is bullied by peers or a social group; this strain causes them to commit a crime or engage in deviant behavior.