Social structure theories are macro theories, which attempt to explain high rates of delinquency and crime in disadvantaged lower-class and ethnic groups. It assumes a consensus perspective regarding the legitimacy of the law and were the dominant explanations of crime during the 1950’s and 1960’s. It does not question the foundation of our social structure, but suggests that crime is an outgrowth of the weakness in the social structure. They propose that the less social solidarity, cohesion, or integration within a group, community or society, the higher the rate of delinquency or crime.

There are three branches of Social structure theory.

• SOCIAL DISORGANIZATION:

– Deteriorated Neighborhoods – When the men had robbed the bank, resulting in a killing. Black Sam and his people had a gun range and people could get guns from him. Stoney brother getting killed while at Lorenz house. This all shows how safe in certain parts of the community and how they function in the neighborhood. 

– Inadequate social control – TT making half of what she was making and can’t afford a babysitter. Frankie loses her job and isn’t able to get another one. 

– Law violating groups – The four girls, Black sam and his there’s, Denzel and his others, etc

Conflicting social values

– Crime occurs as a result of social disorganization in communities

– High levels of poverty, racial heterogeneity, residential mobility leads to social disorganization

– Social disorganization leads to crime

– Social institutions (families, school, churches, community organizations, etc.) in these neighborhoods are weak – Stoney and stevie parents that had passed and stoney had to step up and be the big sister and do what’s best and make sure everything is good for stevie. 

• STRAIN THEORY

-frustration

unequal distribution of wealth and power

• CULTURAL DEVIANCE

-Development of subcultures as result of disorganization & stress

– Sub-cultural values in opposition to conventional values