Unit 7 Assignment (Author’s name)
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Question 1: Neutralization Theory The neutralization theory by Sykes and Matza (as cited in Peretti-Watel, 2003) holds that delinquents/offenders are aware of established values, know that it is wrong to offend and often interrogate themselves before committing offences. They do this to mitigate the expected guilt and shame attached to violating societal norms. Therefore, delinquents usually exploit techniques of neutralization to temporarily neutralize certain innate values which prohibit them from keeping the law. Thus, deviant acts can result from neutralization and the conjunction of opportunity in the absence of family problems and an antisocial personality. This is contrary to traditional theorists who assert that offenders operate in social landscapes that are characterized by oppositional norms which cater to ethics of toughness, violence and respect.
Question 2: Examples of 5 Techniques of Neutralization and how they Work Denial of responsibility: the delinquent claims to be a victim of the circumstances into which they were pulled by uncontrollable forces (e.g. peer pressure or drunkenness). Denial of injury: The delinquent asserts that his actions did not cause any real injury or harm since the victim affords the damage. Denial of the victim: the delinquent claims his actions to be rightful since the victim is abstract/unknown, or because the victim deserves the punishment. Condemnation of the condemners: the delinquent defends his/herself by accusing those who accuse him, concentrating on their behaviors and motives. Appeal to higher loyalties: a temporary violation of values/law is justified by the delinquent who claims to be subject to a stronger commitment such as family (Peretti-Watel, 2003).

Question 3: Primary and Secondary Deviance Deviance