Differential opportunity theory
Differential opportunity theory is a criminological theory proposed by Richard Cloward and Lloyd Ohlin in 1960. The theory builds on the concepts of strain theory and differential association theory, but expands upon them to explain why some individuals engage in criminal behavior while others do not.
According to differential opportunity theory, individuals are influenced by both social structure and individual motivation. The theory posits that individuals have unequal opportunities to achieve socially accepted goals through legitimate means, such as education and employment. Some individuals may face limited access to these opportunities due to various social factors like poverty, discrimination, and limited social support.
However, differential opportunity theory also highlights that individuals may have access to alternative illegitimate means to achieve their desired goals, such as engaging in criminal behavior. The theory suggests that delinquent subcultures, such as gangs, provide certain individuals with the opportunities and support needed to pursue criminal activities as a means of achieving societal goals.
The differential opportunity theory emphasizes three types of deviant subcultures: criminal, conflict, and retreatist subcultures. Criminal subcultures provide opportunities for individuals to engage in organized criminal activities, such as drug trafficking or theft. Conflict subcultures are characterized by violence and aggression, often motivated by competition for resources or territorial disputes. Retreatist subcultures involve individuals who are unable to achieve success through both legitimate and illegitimate means, therefore they retreat from society and engage in drug abuse or other forms of deviant behavior.
The theory suggests that individuals are more likely to engage in criminal behavior when they have limited access to legitimate opportunities, coupled with the presence of deviant subcultures that provide alternative pathways to achieve their goals. Differential opportunity theory highlights the importance of addressing both structural factors (such as poverty and discrimination) and individual motivations in preventing and addressing criminal behavior.