Social Structure Theory

Social Structure Theory suggests that a person’s behavior, including criminal activity, is shaped by the societal environment they live in. It emphasizes that factors like poverty, lack of education, limited opportunities, and community conditions influence individuals’ choices and opportunities, often pushing them toward delinquency. Instead of focusing solely on personal traits, this theory highlights how systemic issues and social inequalities can create circumstances that increase the likelihood of criminal behavior. Essentially, it argues that improving social conditions and reducing poverty can help decrease crime rates by addressing root causes.