Ally’s father was sent to prison when she was 12 for the trafficking of narcotics; her brother was arrested when she was 13 for possession of methamphetamines. By the age of 18, Ally has been arrested three times for possession of marijuana. Which theory best describes Ally’s experience?

a. Strain theory
b. Opaque theory
c. Differential association theory
d. Labeling theory

The Differential Association Theory suggests that individuals learn values, behaviors and attitudes of a criminal conduct by interacting with others. The individual identifies with others who have a criminal behavior (real or imaginary) and carries out criminal acts.

In this case, Ally has been exposed to criminal behavior through the interaction and observation of her father and brother. This has led to her identifying with such behaviors and thus getting arrested as well for criminal acts.

fichoh fichoh · Answer 2 · 2020-03-22T17:35:18+01:00

Answer: C. Differential association theory

Explanation: Usually attributed with analysis of criminal behavior, the differential association theory argues that criminal tendency in an individual could be nurtured based on interaction and exposure to deviant lifestyle within his environment.

Analyzing Ally's criminal experience using the by the differential association theory, it could be argued that is his persistent criminal actions aren't just mere coincidence with his father being a narcotic trafficker and jailed at 12 his elder brother arrested for a drug related offense. And now Ally has taken up that same crime pattern.