The Case Study Of Anita Jackson Is Based On True Events ✓ Solved

The Case Study Ofanita Jacksonis Based On True Events There Are Manys

The case study of Anita Jackson is based on true events. There are many sociological theories that attempt to explain Anita's choices. As you read her story, think about which theory best explains her situation: is there one theory that seems to work well, i.e., each of the main theoretical perspectives as mentioned in the case file, focuses upon different aspects of the deviant and criminal behavior. Explain which of the theory(ies) explains Anita's criminal behavior. Your written response should be no less than words. Read chapter 6 and review notes and resources.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Understanding criminal behavior through sociological perspectives provides a multifaceted view of why individuals like Anita Jackson engage in deviant acts. Each sociological theory emphasizes different aspects of societal influence, individual choice, and structural factors, offering unique insights into her behavior.

The Structural Functionalist Perspective views society as a complex system whose parts work together to promote stability and cohesion. From this standpoint, Anita's criminal behavior could be seen as a disruption to social norms and shared values. Functionalists might argue that such behavior indicates a breakdown in social institutions like family, education, or the justice system. For Anita, if her environment lacked supportive social structures, she might turn to criminal activity as a misguided way to address unmet needs or frustrations (Durkheim, 1897/1951).

The Symbolic Interactionist Perspective emphasizes the importance of social interactions and the meanings individuals assign to behaviors. This perspective suggests that deviant behavior like Anita's could stem from her interactions with others who stigmatize or reinforce criminal behavior. If Anita was surrounded by peers or community members who normalize or glorify criminal acts, she might internalize these signals, shaping her identity and choices accordingly (Blumer, 1969). This theory highlights the role of labels and societal reactions in perpetuating deviance.

The Conflict Perspective focuses on issues of social inequality and power differentials. It argues that crime is a consequence of social and economic disparities, where marginalized groups are more likely to engage in criminal activity due to limited opportunities and systemic oppression. If Anita belonged to an underprivileged community with high unemployment and limited access to education, her criminal behavior could be viewed as a response to structural inequalities and a means of survival (Marx, 1867/1990). This view underscores how societal inequalities criminalize marginalized populations.

The Strain Theory, developed by Robert Merton, posits that societal pressure to achieve success, combined with limited access to legitimate means, leads individuals to resort to deviance. In Anita's case, if she faced barriers to conventional success, such as poverty or discrimination, she might have experienced frustration and resorted to criminal acts as an alternative means to attain her goals (Merton, 1938). This theory explains deviance as a response to the strain between societal expectations and actual opportunities.

Furthermore, the Social Learning Theory suggests that criminal behavior is learned through association with peers and exposure to criminal norms. If Anita was socialized in an environment where criminal activities were prevalent and viewed as acceptable, she might have adopted similar behaviors through her interactions (Akers, 1973). This emphasizes the importance of societal influences and relationships in shaping deviant conduct.

Considering these perspectives, the Conflict Theory and Strain Theory seem particularly relevant in explaining Anita’s criminal behavior, especially if her environment was characterized by economic hardship and social marginalization. These theories highlight the systemic factors that limit legitimate opportunities and create pressures leading to deviance, offering a comprehensive understanding of her situation.

In conclusion, sociological theories provide valuable frameworks to analyze Anita Jackson’s case. While each perspective offers insights into different motivations and influences, a combination of the Conflict and Strain Theories most effectively explains her criminal behavior by emphasizing the role of societal structure, economic inequality, and social pressures.

References

• Akers, R. L. (1973). Deviant behavior: A social learning approach. Wadsworth Publishing.
• Blumer, H. (1969). Symbolic interactionism. In G. Land (Ed.), Sociological theory (pp. 149-183). Prentice-Hall.
• Durkheim, E. (1951). Suicide: A study in sociology (J. A. Spaulding & G. Simpson, Trans.). Free Press. (Original work published 1897)
• Marx, K. (1990). The Communist Manifesto. (S. Moore & K. Short, Eds.). Penguin Classics. (Original work published 1867)
• Merton, R. K. (1938). Social structure and anomie. American Sociological Review, 3(5), 672-682.