‘Under-socialisation is the main reason that individuals act in deviant ways.’ Explain this view.
CAMBRIDGE
A level and AS level
2023
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Introduction
Briefly define deviance and socialisation. Introduce the view that under-socialisation is the main reason for deviant behaviour. State your position on this argument (agree, disagree, or partially agree).
Arguments Supporting Under-socialisation
Explain the concept of under-socialisation: inadequate internalisation of societal norms and values. Link to deviant behaviour: lack of social control mechanisms leads to norm-breaking. Provide examples: failing educational systems, dysfunctional families, peer group influence.
The Underclass and Deviance
Explain the underclass theory: social exclusion, poverty, and lack of opportunities lead to deviance. Discuss the role of family background: intergenerational transmission of crime and poverty. Critique: oversimplification, blaming the victim, ignoring structural factors.
Counter-Arguments and Alternative Explanations
Social control theory: deviance arises from weak social bonds, regardless of socialisation. Strain theory: societal pressures and blocked opportunities lead to deviance. Labelling theory: societal reactions and labelling create deviance.
Conclusion
Summarise the key arguments for and against under-socialisation as the main reason for deviance. Reiterate your stance and offer a balanced perspective. Suggest areas for further sociological investigation.
Under-Socialisation and Deviance: An Exploration
The assertion that under-socialisation is the primary driver of deviant behaviour is a complex one, with compelling arguments both for and against. This essay will delve into the concept of under-socialisation, examining its potential to shape deviant behaviour, while also considering alternative sociological perspectives.
Understanding Under-Socialisation
Under-socialisation, in sociological terms, refers to the inadequate assimilation of societal norms, values, and acceptable behaviours. This can occur due to various factors, including dysfunctional family environments, inadequate schooling, and limited exposure to positive social influences.
For example, the work of Charles Murray (1984) highlights the potential consequences of a breakdown in traditional family structures. Murray argues that the rise of single-parent households, particularly those reliant on welfare, can create an environment where children lack consistent discipline, role models, and positive reinforcement, increasing the likelihood of them engaging in deviant behaviour.
The Underclass and Deviance
The concept of an "underclass," popularised by sociologists like Charles Murray and Anthony Giddens (2006), further illustrates this link. Proponents of this theory argue that a segment of society exists that is perpetually trapped in a cycle of poverty, unemployment, and crime, often attributed to a culture of dependency on welfare and a rejection of mainstream societal values.
This perspective suggests that individuals within this underclass are inadequately socialised into the norms of wider society, leading them to adopt alternative norms and values that may be considered deviant by the mainstream. This can manifest in various forms, including criminal activity, substance abuse, and anti-social behaviour.
Limitations and Alternative Perspectives
While the link between under-socialisation and deviance is significant, it's crucial to acknowledge that it is not a deterministic relationship. Many individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds do not engage in deviant behaviour, highlighting the role of individual agency and resilience.
Furthermore, focusing solely on under-socialisation risks overlooking other crucial factors that contribute to deviance, such as:
- Strain Theory (Robert Merton, 1938): This theory argues that societal pressures to achieve success, coupled with limited opportunities, can lead individuals to engage in deviant behaviour as a means of coping with this strain.
- Labelling Theory (Howard Becker, 1963): This perspective highlights the role of societal reactions in shaping deviant identities. It suggests that labelling individuals as deviant can lead them to internalise this label and engage in further deviant behaviour.
- Subcultural Theories (Albert Cohen, 1955): These theories explore how deviant subcultures emerge, offering alternative norms and values that may lead individuals to engage in behaviours deemed unacceptable by wider society.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while under-socialisation can undoubtedly contribute to deviant behaviour, particularly for individuals growing up in environments where pro-social values are not consistently reinforced, it is essential to avoid oversimplifying this complex issue. A comprehensive understanding of deviance requires considering a range of sociological perspectives and acknowledging the interplay of individual, social, and structural factors.