Differential Association Theory Criminology

Differential association is one of the most prominent theories of modern criminology. Edwin H. Sutherland developed this theory in his “1939 text, Principles of criminology” (Siegel, 237). This theory helps us understand that some criminal behavior is learned. Sutherland believed that there were basic principles of differential association and I will discuss them further.
First is that “Criminal behavior is learned,” which he means that it is not something genetically inherited from a family member (Siegel, 237). Second, “learning is a by-product of interacting with others,” and that means that you pick up behaviors from those you interact with, whether that is family, friends or your coworkers (Siegel, 237). Third, we have that “criminal techniques are learned,” and that means that someone doesn’t wake up with the knowledge of how to manipulate the stock market to collect greater proceeds (Siegel, 237). That means you learn this behavior from someone else that has knowledge of this activity. Next, the book
This theory also, “assumes that youths learn about crime and then commit criminal acts, but it is also possible that experienced delinquents and criminals seek out like-minded peers after they engage in antisocial acts and that the internalization of deviant attitudes follows, rather than precedes, criminality” (Siegel, 239). However, still differential association theory is used today to help us understand criminal behavior. This theory is multifaceted in that it does not look at only one explanation for criminal behavior. Criminology has reaped the benefits of this theory and will continue for many years to