Analysis: Theory Case Study - Assignment Example

These two students were equipped with automatic weapons as well as pipe bombs. In the immediate aftermath, around 30 bombs were defused which were planted in knapsacks, vehicles and lockers. In search of a motive behind the crime, the investigators revealed both the perpetrators were reported to possess immense hatred for the school and were undergoing immense psychological pressure (Lamb, 2008). In accordance with the case scenario, three sociological theories including differential association, anomie and social control have been regarded to be the most appropriate for describing this criminal or violent act.

The sociological theories will best explain the reasons for the criminal act of the juveniles, i.e. Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold in the school, defining the influence of their social surroundings and attachments on their delinquent behavior (Gumbel, 1999). With this perspective, the discussion will emphasize on the sociological theories of juvenile delinquency which are perceived to be the most appropriate for this case in relation to the criminal act in Columbine High School. Analysis There are various delinquency theories which aim to explain the various perspective of a juvenile criminal act.

In this regard, the sociological theories in relation to delinquency are deemed to be the most appropriate for this case. In this perspective, the differential theory is determined to be providing the most appropriate explanation of the criminal act committed by Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold in their school, i.e. Columbine High School. The theory of differential association, created by Edwin Sutherland, signifies that motive for violent or criminal behavior is mostly acquired from the social environment.

Correspondingly, with reference to the Columbine High School massacre it can be observed that the juveniles were strongly influenced with respect to their surrounding and people with whom they had continuous interactions. Hence, juveniles can be observed as focused on developing extensive relationship with similar peer groups from the community through blogging and other online modes of communication. In light of the delinquency theory, it can further be identified that the association of Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold with other groups and consequently, sharing of information of mischief and depiction of hatred played a major role in vitalizing the criminal thoughts among the juveniles.

It is in this context that delinquency is identified as learned behaviors which are built through the interaction with individuals indulged with criminal offences. The theory also reveals that offenders as well as non-offenders attempt to accomplish identical goals, but the differences lie in the choice of path or procedure in order to attain such goals. In this respect, the involvement of individuals with various groups may acquire deviant values which may further lead to delinquency (SAGE Publications, 2005).

Discussion The delinquency theory, through the application of which the Columbine High School massacre can be assessed is the differential association theory. The major strength of the theory is that it assists in learning criminal behavior on the basis of motive, drivers and attitudes accountable for such crime or offence. Moreover, the theory also assists in determining the level at which individuals are perceived to