-
Essay / Hirschi: S-deformation theory and Durkheim's anomie theory
al, 2015; Hoffman, 2003). This suggests that interaction with others teaches individuals certain values and attitudes. Young people may encounter people who engage in problematic behavior. They are therefore at greater risk of becoming involved in this same behavior because they have learned the values, attitudes, techniques, and motivations of criminal behaviors (Monahan, Rhew, Hawkins et. al., 2013). Peer groups are expected to regulate peer group activity in cases of lack of community institutions. However, these peer groups could be very negative towards the individual. As the theory goes, peers who become involved in criminal behavior will most likely influence the individual to follow in their footsteps. These types of peer groups are said to be found in high-risk neighborhoods due to a lack of oversight and discipline due to financial instability. And peer groups tend to pressure others to join in their delinquent behavior. No one wants to be the person left behind or ridiculed because they're not "man" enough to join them. Unfortunately, individuals are forced into a situation in which their peers find themselves involved, whether it's a gang bang, selling drugs, or robbing a store..