According to age-graded theory, what is significant for reducing long-term deviance?

Building social capital and strong social bonds is significant for reducing long-term deviance according to age-graded theory because this framework emphasizes the importance of social relationships and networks in influencing behavior across a person's life. Age-graded theory, developed by Robert Sampson and John Laub, suggests that life events and transitions—such as forming stable partnerships, maintaining friendships, and securing familial support—can provide individuals with stability and deterrence against deviant behavior.

When individuals have strong social bonds, they often feel a greater sense of accountability and connection to their community. This social capital can provide support systems that guide individuals away from delinquency, especially during critical transitional periods in life, such as moving from adolescence into adulthood. Relationships that offer emotional, financial, or cognitive support can help mitigate pressures that might lead to delinquent behavior.

Although factors like strong family ties, high academic achievement, and maintaining consistent employment can certainly contribute to reducing deviance as well, the emphasis of age-graded theory is primarily on the breadth and depth of social relationships and their role in shaping an individual's choices over time. Strong social bonds and capital are key to fostering resilience against the influences that might lead to a path of long-term deviance, which makes this answer particularly aligned with the core