Interpreting the Causal Structure of Differential Association Theory

The Sutherland theory has been supported by various studies showing a co-variance between delinquent association and delinquent involvement. However, since this support is cross-sectional, it can also be used in support of other competing formulations. In this paper we suggest three modes of solution for deciding between the Sutherland and the Glueck interpretations of this data: an empirical solution, a theoretical solution, and a theoretical compromise. Concerning an empirical solution we pay particular attention to techniques recently developed which allow causal interpretations to be inferred from cross-sectional data. Concerning a theoretical solution we discuss the possibility of conceptualizing one or the other theories as special cases of a more general and empirically supported theory. And as a theoretical compromise we suggest restricting the application of each theory to certain mutually exclusive psychological and sociological conditions.