Barry regularly shoplifts various items (DVDs, small appliances, toiletries) from big box stores (e.g., Wal-Mart). He feels some guilt after doing this but resolves these negative feelings by telling himself that corporations won't miss the money and that the people who run them are often white-collar criminals themselves. These thoughts are an example of:
A) primary deviance.
B) techniques of neutralization.
C) low self-control.
D) an anomic state.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Barry's rationalizations for his shoplifting behavior are examples of techniques of neutralization. These are ways individuals justify or excuse their deviant behaviors by neutralizing the moral concerns that would typically prevent them from engaging in such acts. By convincing himself that the corporations won't miss the money and that the people who run them are criminals too, Barry is using these techniques to neutralize his guilt and continue his behavior.

Barry Regularly Shoplifts Various Items (DVDs, Small Appliances, Toiletries) from Big