Question

Marshall became involved in delinquent behaviors at an early age, he performed poorly in school and at early employment attempts, and he consistently misbehaves in both criminal and noncriminal ways, regardless of who is observing him. Which best describes Marshall?

Answer 1

Marshall's persistent delinquency and misbehavior can be understood through the lenses of social disorganization and strain theory, which point to his impoverished environment and the disparity between goals and means as key factors influencing his actions.

Step-by-step explanation:

Marshall's pattern of early delinquent behaviors, academic and employment difficulties, and consistent nonconformity suggest he is experiencing the effects of social disorganization and may be influenced by strain theory. Social disorganization theory suggests that growing up in an impoverished area with weak social structures increases the likelihood of deviant behavior. Additionally, Merton's strain theory implies that individuals who lack the means to achieve socially acceptable goals may turn to deviance.

These theories provide insight into how Marshall's environment might have shaped his behavior. A lack of resources and supportive social networks can contribute to a higher probability of criminal activity, while the strain between desired societal goals and the means to achieve them can lead to alternative, often deviant, behavior strategies.

Moreover, observational learning, as suggested by the work of Marshal & Molina (2006), might indicate that Marshall learned this behavior by observing others in his environment, supporting the notion that direct influences play a critical role in the development of antisocial behaviors.

Marshall's behaviors are indicative of the effects of social disorganization and strain theory, reflecting the impact of an impoverished environment and the strain of achieving success without adequate means.