Understanding Crime Through Social Structure Theory

According to Social Structure Theory, people’s environment, such as poverty, shattered communities, or a lack of opportunity, can drive them to commit crimes. It isn’t only about making lousy decisions; it’s also about having little options.

Let’s focus on: Social Disorganization Theory
This theory says crime is more likely in communities where:

• Families are struggling to stay together
• Schools and institutions don’t function well
• There’s little support or connection between neighbors
• People feel abandoned by systems that are supposed to help

In Set It Off, all of these things are happening. Each woman is living in a place where the system has failed.

Applying the theory to the movie:

• Stoney tries to keep her brother from becoming entangled with the wrong crowd. But when he is wrongfully shot by cops, her trust in justice is shattered.
• Cleo feels rejected by society due to her sexuality, criminal past, and poverty. She only feels at home with her close friends.
• Frankie is labeled “guilty by association” and loses everything over a single assumption.
• T.T., a loving mom, is penalized by a system that fails to support working single mothers.

Broken structures, limited chances, and emotional upheaval are all around these women, according to social disorganization theory. Crime becomes a means of fighting back, living, and gaining power.