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Containment Theory

Containment theory posits that deviance is primarily a matter of impulse control, where individuals' capacity to regulate their behaviors is influenced by their environment and socialization. This theory, developed through studies like those of Reckless and Dinitz, suggests that the ability to control deviant impulses leads to fewer encounters with law enforcement. Understanding this concept is crucial in sociology as it highlights the interaction between individual psychology and societal factors in shaping behaviors labeled as deviant.

17 practice questions with detailed explanations

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1

Which of the following best describes the concept of inner containment in Containment Theory?

Inner containment means a person's ability to stay strong against bad influences. Other options are incorrect because This option suggests that family...

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2

Which of the following best describes Walter Reckless's Containment Theory in the context of social psychology?

Containment Theory says that strong social bonds help keep people from acting out in bad ways. Other options are incorrect because This answer suggest...

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3

According to Walter Reckless's Containment Theory, which of the following factors is most likely to contribute to an individual's ability to resist criminal behavior?

Strong self-control helps people make good choices. Other options are incorrect because Some think that outside pressures can force people to behave; ...

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4

According to Containment Theory, which of the following factors is suggested to play a crucial role in preventing delinquent behavior among adolescents?

Containment Theory says that a strong family can help keep kids out of trouble. Other options are incorrect because Some think friends are the main re...

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5

According to Walter Reckless's Containment Theory, which of the following best describes the relationship between internal and external containment in the context of deviant behavior?

Both internal and external containments are important. Other options are incorrect because This answer suggests that personal values are not strong en...

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6

What does Containment Theory primarily suggest about individuals and their behavior?

Containment Theory says that people have both internal and external controls that help them behave well. Other options are incorrect because This answ...

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7

Which of the following best describes the concept of inner containment in Containment Theory?

Inner containment means a person's ability to stay strong against bad influences. Other options are incorrect because This option suggests that family...

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8

Which of the following best describes the concept of outer containment in Containment Theory?

Outer containment means outside forces help keep people from breaking the law. Other options are incorrect because This option talks about personal va...

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9

How does containment theory explain the relationship between individual behavior and societal influences?

Containment theory says that people with good impulse control can resist bad behavior. Other options are incorrect because This idea suggests that onl...

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10

Impulse control in individuals can be likened to A:B :: Environmental influence in social behavior is to C:?

Socialization helps shape how we behave with others. Other options are incorrect because Some might think biology alone decides our actions; Genetics ...

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11

Which of the following statements accurately reflect the principles of containment theory? (Select all that apply)

Other options are incorrect because This idea suggests that strong friendships and family ties can help people avoid bad choices; This option implies ...

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12

A teenager, raised in a supportive community with strong family ties, consistently resists peer pressure to engage in delinquent behavior. Which category best describes the factors contributing to this individual's ability to control deviant impulses?

Strong social bonds help people feel connected and supported. Other options are incorrect because Some might think that a person's biology decides the...

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13

What underlying cause might lead to individuals exhibiting deviant behavior according to containment theory?

Containment theory says that people need good self-control to avoid bad behavior. Other options are incorrect because Some think that people are born ...

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14

A high school principal notices that students from supportive family backgrounds tend to engage less in delinquent behavior compared to those from less stable environments. How does containment theory explain this observation?

Containment theory says that strong family support helps kids control their impulses. Other options are incorrect because This answer suggests that be...

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15

How does containment theory suggest that socialization influences deviant behavior?

Containment theory says that strong social bonds help people control their impulses. Other options are incorrect because This option suggests that our...

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16

Order the following components of containment theory from the initial impulse to the resulting behavior: A. Socialization influences B. Individual impulse control C. Deviant behavior D. Environmental factors

The correct order starts with individual impulse control. Other options are incorrect because This option suggests starting with socialization; This o...

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17

According to containment theory, the ability to regulate deviant impulses is primarily influenced by one's __________.

Containment theory says that our surroundings help us control bad behavior. Other options are incorrect because Some might think that our genes decide...

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