The social learning theory explains delinquency as a result of what?

Social learning theory posits that delinquency arises primarily from the influence of one’s environment, particularly through interactions and observations in social settings. This theory emphasizes that individuals learn behaviors, including delinquency, from the people around them. When youths are exposed to deviant values and behaviors—through family, peers, or media—they may adopt these behaviors as acceptable or even desirable.

This perspective underlines the importance of social context in shaping an individual’s actions. If a young person frequently witnesses or is taught that deviance is a normative part of life, they are more likely to engage in similar behaviors. This contrasts with other factors, such as competition for resources or weak family ties, which do not comprehensively account for the role of learned behaviors in delinquency.