Concentric Zone Theory

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The Burgess Concentric Zone Theory was the foundation for many social theorist ideas when it came to bridging the gap between crime and neighborhoods. A map which modeled sectioned off rings, demonstrated that all major cities were built on the same concept. With this model in hand, social theorist such as Shaw and McKay, Sutherland, Akers and others of note were able to compare side by side with crime statistics of youth, that in fact majority of crime is linked to specific areas. These areas such as the zone of transition had the highest crime rate. After countless interviews and analysis, the reason for such high crime was due to neighborhood disorganization. With families moving in and out on a consistent basis, the informal form of maintaining …show more content…

As kids grow up, they’re unable to fully align their actions with reason and conjure their own beliefs without outside influences. According to Shaw and McKay, younger people who associate with peers that are gang members or affiliates are more likely to partake in similar activities. Ultimately “criminal behavior is learned through social interactions.” (p.44). Although those who grow up in a disorganized community are more likely to develop a weaker sense of control, doesn’t necessarily mean they cannot develop a strong one. Similar to those who have grown up in a well-controlled neighborhood, there will always be both criminal influences and conventional influences. Sutherland introduces this idea though his theory of differential association. Whichever influence stand dominate over time, that particular person will embrace one side or the other. These idea of differential association gave inspiration to dig even further into this claim. With different sources of influences such as, relationships with family, organizations and public relations can either support the youth’s values or hinder them. So, looking at a well-organized neighborhood. In most cases, family members are well educated, formulate positive organizations and have little to no trouble with the law. As a result, impacts the youth in a way which we consider law-abiding. On the other hand, those who are part of an organized community are

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