Final answer:
Criticism of Edwin Sutherland's differential association theory focuses on its failure to account for individual choices in explaining deviant behavior. The theory posits that individuals learn deviance through social interactions and emphasizes socialization over personal decision-making and biological factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The criticism of differential association theory, developed by sociologist Edwin Sutherland, that has been raised is that it does not account for individual choices. This theory suggests that deviant behavior is learned through social interactions rather than being a product of personal choice or biological factors. The theory also implies that through interactions with others, an individual learns the values, attitudes, techniques, and motives for criminal behavior, rather than making a rational choice to engage in deviance or being biologically predisposed to such conduct.
Differential association theory has been influential in the field of criminology, emphasizing the role of socialization in the process of becoming deviant or criminal. However, its critics argue that the theory neglects the importance of individual decision-making and the possibility that someone might choose to engage in deviant behavior regardless of social influences. Furthermore, it has been criticized for overlooking biological factors that may contribute to criminal behavior.