Subcultural Theories of Crime & Deviance - Cloward and Ohlin | A Level Sociology

This video explains how Cloward and Ohlin sought to combine the theories of Merton and Cohen to explain the different kinds of criminal subcultures they identified in contemporary America.

VIDEO TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Introduction to subcultural theories of crime and deviance.
00:33 - Different subcultures based on geographical opportunities for deviance.
01:06 - Three distinct subcultural responses: criminal, conflict, and retreatist.
02:13 - Criminal subcultures formed in areas with established criminal networks.
02:48 - Conflict subcultures in areas of transition and diverse backgrounds.
03:20 - Retreatist subcultures for individuals who don't conform or fit in.
03:50 - Limited opportunities for status in retreatist subcultures.
04:18 - Examples of subcultural responses in the UK and the US.
04:49 - Criticisms of Cloward and Ohlin's theories.
05:17 - Conclusion and appreciation for watching.

VIDEO SUMMARY
This video explores subcultural theories of crime and deviance, focusing on Cloward and Ohlin's work. They build upon Merton's strain theory and propose that young males join subcultures to achieve status when legitimate opportunities are blocked. They identify three subcultural responses: criminal subcultures formed in areas with established criminal networks, conflict subcultures arising from diverse backgrounds and clashing with rival groups, and retreatist subcultures for individuals who don't fit in other subcultures. Cloward and Ohlin's research helps understand gang cultures and subcultural responses in areas of low socioeconomic status. However, criticisms highlight blurred lines between criminal and conflict subcultures, variations in individuals' reactions to societal treatment, and the temporary nature of criminality in young males. Overall, subcultural theories provide insights into how individuals navigate blocked opportunities and seek alternative avenues for achieving status.

KEY TERMS IN THE VIDEO
subcultural theories, crime, deviance, Cloward and Ohlin, opportunities, blocked opportunities, criminal subcultures, conflict subcultures, retreatist subcultures, social norms, gang cultures, socioeconomic status, criticisms, temporary criminality.