Albert K Cohen – Delinquent Subculture Theory

Based on the work of Robert K Merton, Albert. K Cohen argues like Merton that everyone holds the same goals and that the lower classes do not have the opportunity to fulfil these goals. Merton argues that this leads directly to crime whereas Cohen says that the mainstream goals are rejected and replaced with alternative goals to achieve success such as bravery or fighting.

Cohen’s theory seems to offer a plausible explanation of delinquent crime but there are many objections to this theory mainly due to its universal approach to society. It fails to recognise that not everybody has the same goals and ignores the presence of crime and deviant behaviour in the middle classes.

Cohen’s theory does have many reasonable arguments. It is reasonable to assume that a perso

However, Cohen fails to take into account individuality and applies his theory universally and to groups rather than individuals. As every person is different it is unreasonable to assume that everyone will follow the same pattern. Cohen fails to recognise that people can take control of their own actions and may not succumb to a common trait in their society. Heidensohn. F (1989) states, ‘Like Merton, Cohen assumes a functionalist model of society and a universal set of achievement-orientated standards’.

Cohen’s tendency to apportion most of the blame for the delinquent subculture onto the educational system also seems a little rash. Surely there are many other factors involved in a person’s underachievement. Not everyone who has access to a good education and opportunities will make good use of them and fulfil societies expectations. Cloward & Ohlin in Downes. D & Rock. P (1988) disagree with Cohen’s methods and state, ‘he had seriously underrated the degree of specialisation that existed, and overrated the role of the school as the crucible of delinquency’.

The assumption that everyone holds the same success goals in society also appears to be unfounded. Cohen argues that there is a reversal of mainstream culture goals. West. D.J (1982) provides a different explanation and states that delinquency is, ‘no more than a lessening of disapproval, a lowering of standards rather than a reversal of principles’.

Cohen focused on the main motivations for participation in a delinquent subculture as the need

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