The Theory of Differential Association

The Theory of Differential Association, developed by sociologist Edwin Sutherland, suggests that people's behavior, especially criminal behavior, is learned through their interactions and relationships with others. Essentially, individuals adopt values, attitudes, and techniques from the people they spend time with—like family, friends, or peers—who may endorse such behaviors. If someone is exposed to supportive or reinforcing environments for negative behaviors, they are more likely to imitate those behaviors themselves. The theory emphasizes that criminal or deviant behavior is not innate but learned through social communication and connections.