Social Learning Theory Donny
Social Learning Theory
Donald V. Daul
University of Oshkosh Wisconsin
Abstract
Social learning theory is one of the most frequently looked at theories in criminology. Throughout this paper I will examine the basic premise as well as the main goals the theory tries to explain. I will also look at the validity and limitations associated with the social learning theory, through the use of peer reviewed articles. Finally I will describe the different policy applications that are contributed with this theory, as well as show how the social learning theory can be observed in a real life context, specifically in the movie GoodFellas (1990).
Social Learning Theory Social learning theory states that criminal and deviant behavior stems from imitation and reinforcement of one’s environment. Its applications attempt to explain why certain people tend to engage in criminal activities and why others refrain from it. Social learning theory specifies the significance of human interactions as well as the effect they have on influencing the way individuals learn and participate in crime itself. This theory was introduced into the criminological field by Ronald L. Akers, which originated from the differential association theory developed by Edwin H. Sutherland (Akers & Sellers, 2009, p. 85). The social learning theory is widely accepted by many criminologists and can be used to explain a wide variety of criminal behavior. Modern movies such as GoodFellas (1990) portray to the public the importance of one’s environment in creating a relationship with crime, which in turn demonstrates the validity of this real life working model. The social learning theory was developed as an attempt to explain the reason why specific individuals partake in crime and what influenced their reasoning. It is stated that this theory, “As a general perspective on deviance and related criminal behavior, emerged as part of a larger movement toward the integration of modern
Donald V. Daul
University of Oshkosh Wisconsin
Abstract
Social learning theory is one of the most frequently looked at theories in criminology. Throughout this paper I will examine the basic premise as well as the main goals the theory tries to explain. I will also look at the validity and limitations associated with the social learning theory, through the use of peer reviewed articles. Finally I will describe the different policy applications that are contributed with this theory, as well as show how the social learning theory can be observed in a real life context, specifically in the movie GoodFellas (1990).
Social Learning Theory Social learning theory states that criminal and deviant behavior stems from imitation and reinforcement of one’s environment. Its applications attempt to explain why certain people tend to engage in criminal activities and why others refrain from it. Social learning theory specifies the significance of human interactions as well as the effect they have on influencing the way individuals learn and participate in crime itself. This theory was introduced into the criminological field by Ronald L. Akers, which originated from the differential association theory developed by Edwin H. Sutherland (Akers & Sellers, 2009, p. 85). The social learning theory is widely accepted by many criminologists and can be used to explain a wide variety of criminal behavior. Modern movies such as GoodFellas (1990) portray to the public the importance of one’s environment in creating a relationship with crime, which in turn demonstrates the validity of this real life working model. The social learning theory was developed as an attempt to explain the reason why specific individuals partake in crime and what influenced their reasoning. It is stated that this theory, “As a general perspective on deviance and related criminal behavior, emerged as part of a larger movement toward the integration of modern
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