The differential opportunity theory was a theory created by Cloward and Ohlin. This theory suggests that the structure of society creates differential access to both legitimate opportunities and illegitimate opportunities. In other words, there are some people that have more access to illegitimate opportunities than other people. When having more access to illegitimate opportunities they will more likely become participants in deviant subcultures.

An example of the theory in action is with looking at lower class neighborhoods, which you are more likely to see people more apart of criminal gangs then a upper class neighborhoods. When you are apart of an environment like this that it makes certain illegitimate opportunities easily available

Three subcultures

The theorists of differential opportunity theory determined that there were three different paths that individuals faced with limited opportunities would use to achieve success. The three include crime, conflict and retreatist.

Crime – When living in a neighborhood where crime is heavily prevalent then the differential opportunity theory suggests that individual will have higher chances in engaging in criminal activity than doing something that is legitimate in society.

Conflict – usually a fight for status and power in the neighborhood through violence against competitive gangs. This area is characterized by a mix of groups trying to establish dominance. Example. Teens will fight to gain power and prestige for their gang

SOURCES:

Wickert, Christian. “Theory of Differential Opportunity (Cloward & Ohlin).” SozTheo, 14 May 2019, soztheo.de/theories-of-crime/learning-subculture/theory-of-differential-opportunity-cloward-ohlin/?lang=en.

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