Sampson and Laub

Definition

Sampson and Laub refer to the work of criminologists Robert J. Sampson and John H. Laub, who developed a life course theory of crime that emphasizes the importance of social bonds and transitions throughout an individual's life. Their research highlights how factors like marriage, employment, and family ties can influence criminal behavior, especially during late adulthood when individuals may experience shifts in their social connections and responsibilities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sampson and Laub found that life events like marriage can significantly reduce criminal behavior in individuals who may have been engaged in crime during younger years.
2. Their research showed that positive social bonds formed in late adulthood can lead to desistance from crime, emphasizing the role of supportive relationships.
3. They argued that not all individuals follow the same trajectory regarding crime; instead, pathways can diverge based on life experiences and opportunities.
4. The concept of 'turning points' is central to their theory, suggesting that certain life changes can redirect an individual's path away from criminal activity.
5. Their work highlights the importance of considering how cumulative experiences throughout life affect behavior rather than focusing solely on early life factors.

Review Questions

• How do Sampson and Laub's findings regarding social bonds influence our understanding of criminal behavior in late adulthood?
  • Sampson and Laub's findings emphasize that social bonds play a critical role in influencing criminal behavior during late adulthood. They discovered that strong connections with family, friends, and the community can act as protective factors against crime. This suggests that positive relationships formed later in life can help individuals resist engaging in criminal activities, highlighting the significance of social support in promoting desistance.
• Discuss the concept of 'turning points' as defined by Sampson and Laub and its relevance to late adulthood.
  • The concept of 'turning points' refers to significant life events or changes that can alter an individual's trajectory concerning criminal behavior. In the context of late adulthood, these turning points may include retirement, becoming a grandparent, or entering into a stable marriage. Such transitions can create opportunities for reevaluation of priorities and commitments, leading many individuals away from previous patterns of criminality toward more socially acceptable behaviors.
• Evaluate the implications of Sampson and Laub's Age-Graded Theory of Informal Social Control for public policy aimed at reducing crime among older adults.
  • Sampson and Laub's Age-Graded Theory of Informal Social Control suggests that fostering strong social bonds and providing supportive environments for older adults can effectively reduce crime rates within this demographic. Public policy initiatives could focus on enhancing community engagement programs, promoting family connectivity, and providing job opportunities for older individuals. By recognizing the importance of social relationships and transitions in late adulthood, policies can be designed to create protective environments that encourage positive behavior changes and deter criminal activity.

Related terms

Life Course Theory: A theoretical framework that examines how individual lives are shaped by social, historical, and cultural contexts, emphasizing the timing of life events and transitions.

Social Bonds: Connections with other people that can influence behavior, including relationships with family, friends, and the community, which play a crucial role in crime prevention.

Age-Graded Theory of Informal Social Control: A concept developed by Sampson and Laub that posits informal social controls become more influential as individuals age, particularly through marriage and employment.