Peer influence in criminology refers to the impact that friends, associates, and social groups have on an individual’s likelihood of engaging in criminal behavior.
Understanding Peer Influence in Criminology
Peer influence plays a significant role in shaping an individual’s attitudes, behaviors, and decision-making. In criminology, researchers study how social interactions contribute to delinquency and crime, particularly among adolescents and young adults. Many theories highlight the importance of peer relationships in either encouraging or deterring criminal activity.
The Role of Peers in Criminal Behavior
People are naturally influenced by those around them. During adolescence, peer groups become especially important as young people seek social acceptance. The need to fit in can lead individuals to adopt the behaviors, attitudes, and values of their peers. If a person’s friends engage in criminal activity, they may feel pressure—either direct or indirect—to do the same.
Direct Peer Pressure
Direct peer pressure involves explicit encouragement or coercion to engage in criminal behavior. This can take different forms:
- Verbal persuasion – A peer might urge someone to commit a crime, such as shoplifting or vandalism.
- Threats or coercion – In some cases, peers may use intimidation to force someone into illegal acts.
- Group participation – Some crimes, such as gang-related offenses, require active participation in group activities, making it harder for individuals to refuse.
Indirect Peer Influence
Indirect peer influence occurs when a person adopts criminal behavior without being explicitly pressured. This happens when someone sees friends engaging in illegal activities and begins to view these behaviors as normal or acceptable. Key factors in indirect peer influence include:
- Observational learning – People mimic the actions of their peers, especially if those behaviors appear rewarding.
- Changes in attitudes – Being around delinquent peers can alter a person’s perceptions of crime, making them more likely to justify or downplay its consequences.
- Desire for acceptance – The need to belong can lead individuals to adopt behaviors that align with their peer group’s norms.
Theories Explaining Peer Influence in Crime
Several criminological theories explore the relationship between peer influence and criminal behavior. These theories help explain why individuals may be more likely to commit crimes when surrounded by delinquent peers.
Differential Association Theory
Edwin Sutherland’s Differential Association Theory (1939) argues that criminal behavior is learned through social interactions. According to this theory:
- Individuals learn values, motives, and techniques for crime from those around them.
- The more a person associates with delinquent peers, the more likely they are to adopt criminal behaviors.
- Crime becomes more likely when people are exposed to more pro-criminal attitudes than anti-criminal ones.
This theory suggests that peer groups are one of the strongest influences on criminal behavior, especially when crime is seen as acceptable or justifiable within the group.
Social Learning Theory
Albert Bandura’s Social Learning Theory (1977) builds on Sutherland’s ideas, emphasizing that people learn behaviors through observation, imitation, and reinforcement. Key principles include:
- Modeling – Individuals copy behaviors they see in others, especially if those behaviors are rewarded.
- Reinforcement – If a person receives positive reinforcement (such as social approval) for criminal behavior, they are more likely to repeat it.
- Cognitive processes – People internalize behaviors by observing consequences and adjusting their actions accordingly.
This theory highlights how peer influence extends beyond direct pressure. Even without encouragement, individuals may adopt criminal behaviors if they see their peers benefiting from them.
Subcultural Theory
Albert Cohen’s Subcultural Theory (1955) explains how peer groups develop their own values that may support criminal behavior. This theory suggests that:
- Young people in disadvantaged communities may form subcultures with norms that differ from mainstream society.
- These subcultures often emphasize toughness, status, and loyalty, leading to increased criminal activity.
- Crime within these groups is often seen as a way to gain respect or prove oneself.
Gangs are a common example of how subcultures influence crime. Young people who feel alienated from mainstream society may turn to delinquent peer groups for acceptance and identity.
Control Theory
Travis Hirschi’s Social Control Theory (1969) takes a different approach, suggesting that peer influence contributes to crime when individuals lack strong social bonds. This theory argues that people are naturally inclined to commit crimes, but are restrained by:
- Attachment – Close relationships with law-abiding individuals discourage criminal behavior.
- Commitment – Investment in conventional activities (e.g., school, work) reduces the likelihood of crime.
- Involvement – Participation in positive activities leaves less time for delinquency.
- Belief – Strong moral values and respect for laws deter crime.
If individuals have weak ties to family, school, or the community, they may be more susceptible to negative peer influence.
Peer Influence in Juvenile Delinquency
Peer influence is particularly strong among juveniles. Adolescence is a time of identity formation, and peer relationships often take precedence over parental authority. Studies show that:
- Juveniles with delinquent peers are more likely to engage in theft, vandalism, and drug use.
- Peer influence is a stronger predictor of juvenile crime than family background or socioeconomic status.
- The presence of even one law-abiding peer in a group can reduce the likelihood of criminal behavior.
How Peer Influence Can Prevent Crime
Just as peers can encourage crime, they can also help prevent it. Positive peer influence can steer individuals away from delinquency by promoting prosocial behaviors and reinforcing societal norms. Strategies for reducing negative peer influence include:
Mentorship Programs
Programs that connect at-risk youth with positive role models can help counteract the effects of delinquent peers. Mentors provide guidance, encouragement, and support.
Structured Activities
Extracurricular activities like sports, clubs, and volunteer work provide young people with constructive social environments that reduce exposure to criminal influences.
Social Skills Training
Teaching individuals how to resist peer pressure can empower them to make independent choices and avoid criminal activity.
Community Involvement
Strong community ties create a sense of belonging and accountability, making individuals less likely to engage in crime.
Conclusion
Peer influence is a powerful factor in criminal behavior, especially among adolescents. Friends and social groups shape attitudes, reinforce behaviors, and create environments that can either promote or discourage crime. Criminological theories such as Differential Association, Social Learning, and Control Theory explain how peer influence contributes to delinquency. However, positive peer relationships, mentorship programs, and community engagement can help counteract these effects and reduce crime.
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Last Modified: 03/05/2025