Criminological Theories: Labeling, Stigma, Conflict, and More

A horizontal 2D infographic presenting seven major criminological theories — Labeling Theory, Primary & Secondary Deviance, Stigma Theory, Symbolic Interactionism, Differential Association, Conflict Theory, and Heat and Crime Theory — with icons and brief summaries of their core concepts and key figures.

Introduction to Criminological Theories Criminology is the scientific study of crime and criminal behavior. To understand the nature of crime, criminologists develop theories to explain why individuals engage in criminal acts. These theories encompass a variety of perspectives that focus on factors such as social reactions, psychological processes, environmental influences, and societal structures. In this … Read more

Edwin Sutherland: Redefining Crime and Society Today

A conceptual illustration of Edwin Sutherland's criminology theories, including White-Collar Crime and Differential Association Theory.

Who Was Edwin Sutherland Edwin Sutherland stands as one of the most influential criminologists of the 20th century, fundamentally reshaping the study of crime through his groundbreaking work. His contributions to criminology, particularly his development of the Differential Association Theory, revolutionized the understanding of criminal behavior. By shifting the focus from biological and psychological explanations … Read more

Edwin Sutherland’s Differential Association Theory: An In-Depth Analysis

Image illustrating the concept of Edwin Sutherland's differential association theory, with a diagram highlighting the influence of social factors on criminal behavior.

Introduction : Overview of Edwin Sutherland and the significance of his theory Edwin Sutherland’s Differential Association Theory is one of the most influential theories in criminology. Introduced in the early 20th century, this theory proposes that criminal behavior is learned through social interactions. Unlike biological or psychological explanations of crime, Sutherland emphasized the role of … Read more

The American Social School of Criminology: Three Main Ideas

Illustration of the American Social School in criminology, featuring urban crime analysis.

The American Social School in criminology has significantly contributed to understanding criminal behavior through sociological perspectives. This school of thought emphasizes the impact of environmental, cultural, and social interactions on individuals’ propensity for crime. Among the most influential theories within this school are the Ecological Theory, Cultural Conflict Theory, and Differential Association Theory. These theories … Read more