Unable to find work after his release from prison, Pete contacted another past inmate and planned an armed robbery of a convenience store. According to the text, what theory explains Pete's decision to look up his associate from prison when he could not find a job?
A)social bond theory
B)moral crusade theory
C) differential association theory
D) emancipation theory

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Differential association theory explains that criminal behavior is learned through close associations with others who engage in crime, and that individuals become delinquent when their definitions of law-abiding behavior are outweighed by definitions of criminal behavior. In this case, Pete's contact with the other past inmate from prison exposed him to criminal behavior and provided him with a potential partner for an armed robbery.

Unable to Find Work After His Release from Prison, Pete