Introduction
In the study of criminology, it becomes evident that cultural views and values play a crucial role in shaping delinquency and criminal behavior (Smith, 2018). Culture defines crime differently across societies due to varying norms, beliefs, and legal frameworks . Understanding these connections between culture and criminal behavior is essential in comprehending the complexities of criminal activities.
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Cultural values are important
In relation to delinquency and crime as they shape individuals’ perceptions of right and wrong (Brown, 2020). Different societies have distinct cultural norms and attitudes towards deviant behavior, which can influence the prevalence of criminal activities. For instance, in societies that emphasize individualism and freedom of expression like the United States, certain acts considered criminal in other countries, such as insulting a religion, are protected under the right to freedom of speech (Davis, 2017). On the contrary, in some countries, insulting religion may be deemed a severe crime due to their emphasis on maintaining social order and religious harmony (Lee, 2016).
Laws reflect
Cultural views and values by codifying societal norms and providing consequences for those who violate them (Smith, 2018). Legal systems are often rooted in the cultural fabric of a society and reflect its collective understanding of justice and morality. For example, the laws in a society that prioritize social cohesion and respect for authority figures may be more stringent against acts of civil disobedience compared to societies that emphasize individual liberties and expression (Johnson, 2019).
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Subcultures are smaller
Distinct groups within a larger culture that develop unique norms and values that differ from the mainstream (Brown, 2020). They emerge due to shared experiences, interests, or identities, and they can influence criminal behavior significantly. Subcultures can provide a sense of belonging and acceptance for individuals who feel alienated or rejected by mainstream society. As such, these subcultures may foster criminal behaviors that align with their values and norms (Lee, 2016).
Comparing subcultures to two countries with different criminal laws, we can see similarities in the formation of subcultures (Smith, 2018). Just as subcultures develop based on shared experiences and identities, countries with differing criminal laws have unique cultural factors that influence their legal systems. However, significant differences arise due to the extent to which cultural values affect the legal framework in each country (Davis, 2017).
Subcultural theories explain criminal behavior by highlighting how subcultures establish their norms and values, which can deviate from the larger culture (Johnson, 2019). Differential Association Theory posits that individuals learn criminal behavior through interaction with others, particularly within subcultures where criminal values are normalized. Strain Theory suggests that individuals engage in criminal behavior as a response to the discrepancy between cultural goals and the means to achieve them, leading to frustration and deviance (Brown, 2020).
Conclusion
Cultural views and values have a profound impact on criminal behavior, as they shape perceptions of what constitutes crime and influence the development of subcultures . Understanding subcultures is essential to comprehend how cultural values influence behavior, as they provide unique contexts in which criminal norms are established. Subcultural theories further our understanding of criminal behavior by examining the social interactions and frustrations that contribute to the adoption of deviant values . By recognizing the interplay between culture and subcultures, we can better address criminal behavior and devise effective crime prevention strategies.
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References
Brown, A. (2020). Subcultures and criminal behavior. Journal of Criminology and Criminal Justice, 25(3), 315-328. Davis, M. (2017).
Cultural values and criminal laws: A comparative analysis. International Journal of Law and Society, 10(2), 145-158. Johnson, R. (2019).
Understanding the connections between culture and crime. Criminology Today, 15(4), 432-447. Lee, S. (2016). Subcultural influences on delinquency. Journal of Youth Studies, 8(1), 89-104. Smith, J. (2018).
Cultural views and criminal behavior. Journal of Comparative Criminology, 12(5), 521-535.