Question

Describe the four primary theoretical categories (functional, interactionist, conflict, control) and how they explain the existence of crime and/or deviance, and identify at least one key theorist from each theoretical area and describe their theory on criminal behavior.

Answer 1

Functional theory argues that deviance plays an active role in the coherence of the various populations within a particular location. The theory claims that deviance creates the boundaries between acceptable and unacceptable behaviors. Robert Merton who propounds the Strain Theory is one of the proponents of the functional theory

Interactionist theory argues that deviance results from the reactions of others, particularly those in power, and by learning and modeling deviant behavior seen in other people close to the individual. the key theorists are Edwin Lemert and Edwin Sutherlin

Conflict theory argues that conflict results from the Inequalities in wealth and power that arise from the economic system (Karl Marx) and the definition of deviance by those in powers in ways that maintain the status quo.(C. Wright Mills)

Control theory argues that violence results from the feelings of disconnection from society and the attempt to control or stop this disconnection. This theory was propounded by Travis Hirschi