Theories Of Gang Delinquency

Many theorists seem to believe that the most common form of delinquency is gang relation, which is related to learned behaviors. The origins of delinquent behavior and the context in which it develop are examined in chapter 5 and chapter 7. The theoretical perceptive of both readings apply symbolic interactionism to the understanding of criminal behavior by insisting behavior is learned in a social environment, which was stated by Sutherland.

Criminologist began studying gang delinquency and theorizing about the delinquent subcultures. Subculture consists of the occupational culture that is shared among those in the community. It is the subculture that shapes the attitude among many citizens, which makes them cynical, isolated, defensive, and alienated. Subcultures, however, conflicts with the culture that the individuals seek to portray to the each other. It plays a big role in many communities. The Social Strain Theory explains deviance as a violation of social norms that define appropriate behavior under a particular set of circumstances, but not all deviance is a criminal act.

Cohen noted that delinquent behavior is most often found among lower class males and that gang delinquency is the most common form. Research has shown that most juvenile delinquents today tend to be males and females. Female and male involvement in criminal acts may cause gang membership and participation and minor and serious forms of offenses. Female delinquents tend to be shy, selfish,