Social structure theories propose that being in the disadvantaged economic class is the primary cause of crime and, as a result, lower-class crime is often violent and committed by gang members or marginally employed young adults. Social structure theorists argue that people living in equivalent circumstances behave in similar, predictable ways. The three branches of social structure theories are social disorganization theories, strai

This lesson deals with the association between socialization and crime. Social process theories argue that socialization, not the social structure, determines life chances. The more social problems encountered during the socialization process, the greater the likelihood that youths will encounter difficulties and obstacles. The relationship between family structure and crime is critical when the high rates of divorce and single parents are considered, but family conflict and discord are more important determinants of behavior than are family structure.

The effect of the family on delinquency has also been observed in other cultures. Educational process and adolescent achievement in school have been linked to criminality. Schools contribute to criminality in that when they label problem youths they set them apart from conventional society. Many school dropouts, especially those who have been expelled, face a significant chance of entering a criminal career.