Symbolic Interactionism on Social Organization and Social Structure: Implications for Neighborhoods and Crime

• In Event: Communities in Context: The Social Organization of Neighborhoods

Abstract

Symbolic interactionism has a long history in criminological theory though recognition of its role and the implications of the theory vary considerably. Despite its connection to the work of Park and Burgess, an explicit recognition of the theoretical and methodological contributions of symbolic interactionism’s understanding of social organization and structure is often missing in research on neighborhoods and crime. The purpose of this paper is to explore the contribution symbolic interactionism can make to an understanding of the role of community organizations and institutions in neighborhood crime. Drawing on the work of Maines, (1977, 1982, 2003) Hall (1995, 1997), as well as Becker (1960) and Matsueda (2006) the paper explores the interconnections between social networks, commitments, and neighborhood based organizations.

Authors

• Ruth Triplett, Old Dominion University

• Randy Gainey, Old Dominion University

• Garland White, Old Dominion University