Subculture refers to an organized set of values, norms, beliefs, and attitudes that have become a traditional way of life among certain segments of a population. Delinquent subcultures, on the other hand, are those where anti-social behavior is required by the norms of the group. In 1955, Albert Cohen proposed a theory of delinquency in his book "Delinquent Boys," which sought to explain the origin and functions of delinquent subcultures.
According to Cohen's theory, delinquency is not inborn or something the individual contrives on their own. Instead, individuals learn to become delinquent by interacting with others who share this pattern. Delinquent patterns are acquired by becoming a member of a group where delinquency is already an established pattern and is required by the norms of the group. Cohen believed that the delinquent subculture develops as a response and solution to the problem of "status frustration," which occurs because of socialization.
Socialization patterns, as well as values, are class-linked. In the middle class, socialization is a conscious, rational, and exacting practice, with parents exerting effort to control the child's environment by picking out the right neighborhood, meeting the child's friends, and supervising their leisure activities. The techniques of middle-class socialization involve creating a strong dependence upon parental approval and a tendency to utilize "withdrawal of love" as a major disciplinary technique.
Working-class socialization, in comparison, is more easy-going, less rational, conscious, and deliberate. It is also believed to be less demanding upon the child, with effort and accomplishment not so strictly encouraged. Physical punishment tends to replace withdrawal of love as a major disciplinary technique. There is also a difference in values internalized by the children. Working-class parents instill lower aspirations in their children, with jobs being evaluated in terms of immediate income and security rather than long-range opportunities.
Cohen argues that such subcultures emerge when youth of the working class are unable to achieve their aspirations. The lower class does not have the privilege of getting a higher education and cannot compete side by side with other classes. Therefore, in an education system built on middle-class values, there are no ways or means for the lower class to achieve life success. As a result, these delinquent subcultures are created as a means of permitting working-class boys to adapt to their inferior status positions in society. In other words, working-class boys believe that their status is threatened when they are judged by the "Good Boys" criteria among the middle class, and these subcultures are created as a result of building abusive personalities to build that status.
Cohen describes the delinquent subculture crime as non-utilitarian. Usually, we assume people steal things because they want them for some use--to eat, wear, or sell, or in some way use them. However, among these delinquents, stealing is often an end in itself, and the stolen objects are of secondary importance. The stealing is done and valued because there is attached to the process some status, recognition, or satisfaction.
In summary, Cohen's theory of subculture sheds light on the origin and functions of delinquent subcultures. By understanding the socialization patterns and values that shape individuals in different classes, we can better understand why delinquent subcultures form and how they function. The theory helps us understand that the delinquent subculture is a response to a specific societal problem and offers insights into how to address the issue of delinquency.
Comments
Post a Comment