Functionalist Perspective on Crime

This section delves deeper into the functionalist view on crime and deviance, exploring Emile Durkheim's theories and the positive functions of crime in society. This information is crucial for students working on a Functionalist view on crime and deviance essay.

Durkheim argues that crime is inevitable and universal due to two main factors:

1. Individuals are exposed to different influences and circumstances, making it impossible for everyone to accept society's norms, values, and expectations uniformly.
2. Society contains diverse lifestyles and values, with different subcultures having their own norms and values, leading to varying definitions of deviance.

Highlight: Despite threats to social order, Durkheim argues that some crime and deviance is essential and necessary, as it actually performs positive functions for society.

The document then outlines the 4 functions of crime according to functionalist theory:

1. Boundary Maintenance
2. Adaptation and Change
3. Safety Valve
4. Warning Signal

Definition: Boundary Maintenance refers to how crime produces a reaction from society, uniting members in condemnation of the criminal and creating social cohesion.

Example: The 9/11 attacks in the United States led to increased social cohesion and unity among Americans.

Vocabulary: Anomie - a state of normlessness or lack of social regulation in society.

These concepts are essential for understanding the functionalist theory of crime examples and preparing for AQA Sociology A Level Crime and deviance past papers.

Evaluation and Further Discussion

This section provides critical evaluation of Durkheim's functionalist perspective on crime and deviance, offering valuable insights for students preparing Crime and deviance A Level Sociology essays and exams.

The document presents a sample answer to the question: "Outline two reasons why functionalists see crime as inevitable" (4 marks). This example demonstrates how to structure responses for AQA A Level Sociology crime and Deviance checklist items.

Example: One reason that crime is inevitable, according to functionalists, is due to the diverse nature of society. Different subcultures in society have their own norms and values, and the definition of 'deviance' will differ between them.

The section also explores the idea that society might actually promote crime to maintain a 'healthy' balance, referencing Erikson's 1966 study. This concept is crucial for understanding the social functions of deviance.

Highlight: Erikson (1966) suggests that agents of social control, such as the police, actually aim to maintain a certain level of crime rather than eliminate it completely.

The document concludes with an evaluation of Durkheim's theory, highlighting its strengths and limitations. This critical analysis is essential for students preparing for AQA Sociology A Level Crime and deviance past papers.

Highlight: Functionalism looks at crime and its functions for society as a whole but does not consider its effects on individuals.

This comprehensive overview of functionalist perspectives on crime and deviance provides students with a solid foundation for their Sociology crime and deviance revision notes pdf and exam preparation.