Social Psychological Explanations – A Level Psychology Eduqas Revision

Social Learning Theory

Proposes that behaviour, including criminal behaviour, is learned via interaction and observation within a social context.
This theory is primarily concerned with the learning of behaviours rather than the reasons behind them.
It’s important to note three processes in the development of criminal behaviour: observational learning, reinforcement (rewards), and the imitation of behaviours.
Observational learning is where an individual learns behaviour by observing others. If a behaviour such as crime is observed and not punished, the observer can learn and copy this behaviour.
In reinforcement, if a behaviour like stealing is rewarded, either through positive reinforcement (e.g. through material gain) or negative reinforcement (e.g. relief from poverty), this behaviour is likely to be repeated.
Imitation refers to the replication of observed behaviours, particularly if the model’s actions are rewarded or go unpunished. For example, if a young person sees their older sibling getting away with theft, they might imitate this behaviour, assuming they’ll also get away with it.

Psychodynamic Approach to Criminal Behaviour

A psychodynamic approach to criminal behaviour points towards unresolved inner conflicts and traumatic experiences from early childhood as causes of criminal tendencies.
Freud speculated that if conflict between the id (primitive desires), ego (realistic thinking), and super-ego (morality) are not managed properly, they result in imbalance and can lead to deviant behaviours.
The idea of a weak super ego can be linked to criminal behaviour. A person with a weak super-ego may lack control over id impulses and may not feel guilt for their criminal actions.
Some theorise that inadequate socialisation impacts development of the super-ego, which can subsequently lead to delinquency.
Core concepts of a psychodynamic approach include repressed memories, defence mechanisms, and inner conflicts, which can create a pattern of criminality. This approach focuses on treating the underlying psychological issues rather than simply punishing the behaviour.

Labelling Theory

This theory suggests that once an individual is labelled as a criminal or delinquent by the society, they are more inclined to behave in a way that fulfils that label.
Therefore, labelling and societal reaction are considered significant factors that lead to criminal behaviour.
The process of labelling often leads to a self-fulfilling prophecy, where an individual begins to accept the label and act accordingly. For example, if a young person is constantly labelled as a troublemaker, they may start to accept this as part of their identity and act out as a result.
Labelling can also lead to deviance amplification, where a behaviour escalates as a consequence of societal reaction.
This theory emphasises the role of societal structures and interactions in the development and progression of criminal behaviours.

Differential Association Theory

Suggests that people learn binary codes of behaviour (right or wrong) from various groups they interact with. The type of behaviour learned depends on whether the group declares the behaviour as acceptable or not.
Therefore, individuals who associate with groups that accept or endorse crime are likely to learn and adopt criminal behaviours.
The environment, including family, friends, and wider social group, deeply influences the person’s behaviour according to this theory.
It’s the frequency and intensity of interaction that determines the effect of this group on the individual’s behaviour.
This theory asserts that criminal behaviour is sociologically rather than psychologically or biologically dependent, highlighting the pivotal role environment plays in shaping behaviors.