Functionalist Perspectives on Crime and Deviance

Functionalists view society as a complex system with interconnected parts that work together to maintain stability and order. From this perspective, even crime and deviance are seen as playing a role in the overall functioning of society. This essay will explore some of the key arguments put forward by functionalist sociologists to explain the presence of crime in society.

Crime as Reinforcing Social Norms and Values

Emile Durkheim, a founding figure in sociology, argued that crime is not only normal but also serves a vital function in society. He argued that crime helps to define the boundaries of acceptable behavior. When laws are broken and criminals are punished, it reinforces the values and norms of the majority, promoting social solidarity. For example, the public outrage and subsequent punishment that follow a high-profile murder case reaffirm the collective conscience of society against violence.

Crime as a Reflection of Social Change and Strain

Functionalists also recognize that crime rates can fluctuate in response to social change and societal issues. Robert Merton's Strain Theory suggests that individuals may engage in criminal behavior when they experience a strain between societal goals (like financial success) and the legitimate means to achieve them. For instance, if individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds face limited access to education and job opportunities, they may experience strain and turn to crime as a way to achieve economic success. This highlights how social inequalities can contribute to criminal behavior.

Social Factors Contributing to Crime

Functionalist perspectives also point to specific social factors that can lead to higher crime rates:
*Status Frustration (Albert Cohen): Young people, particularly from working-class backgrounds, may experience frustration due to their limited access to opportunities and their inability to achieve status through conventional means. This frustration can lead them to form delinquent subcultures where criminal behavior is valued.
*Inadequate Socialization: Functionalists like the New Right argue that the breakdown of traditional family structures, such as the decline of the nuclear family, can lead to inadequate socialization. Children from unstable or single-parent families may lack the proper guidance and support needed to develop pro-social behaviors, making them more susceptible to criminal influences.
*Illegitimate Opportunity Structures (Cloward and Ohlin): Just as legitimate opportunities vary across society, so do opportunities for criminal behavior. In areas with established criminal networks, young people may find it easier to embark on a "criminal career" because they have access to role models, networks, and opportunities within the criminal underworld.

Economic Functions of Crime and Criticisms

While functionalists acknowledge the negative aspects of crime, they also point out its economic functions. Crime creates jobs in law enforcement, the justice system, and private security, contributing to the economy.

It’s important to note that functionalist perspectives on crime have faced criticism. Critics argue that these theories sometimes appear to justify or downplay the serious harm that crime inflicts on individuals and communities. Furthermore, focusing solely on the functions of crime can overshadow the need to address the root causes, such as poverty and inequality, that contribute to criminal behavior.

Conclusion

In conclusion, functionalist perspectives offer valuable insights into the role of crime and deviance in society. By highlighting how crime can reinforce norms, reflect social change, and serve economic functions, these theories provide a framework for understanding the complex relationship between crime and social order. However, it is crucial to consider the criticisms and limitations of functionalist perspectives and to acknowledge the multifaceted nature of crime and its impact on society.