ABSTRACT
Stemming from the weak areas within Differential Association theory, Akers developed the Social Learning Theory as it relates to deviant behavior in order to explain how and why individuals engage in criminal behavior. Using the lessons from Behavioral Psychology, Akers adapted the theory and concepts to explain deviance as a Social Learning theory. The starting point is that social behavior, counter to other theories, is a cognitive process where personality and environment reciprocally interact. Learning is accomplished through rewards and punishments as well as observations, according to this theory. Within the context of viewing society as a fluid and on going process, the social meaning of human actions is constantly changing. Therefore, the social meaning of "deviance" is always in a state of flux. Criminologists within the labeling perspective generally take the point of view of the marginalized groups as a starting point for their investigations into crime and deviance.
