Techniques of Neutralization: A Theory of Delinquency

Gresham M. Sykes and David Matza's 1957 article, "Techniques of Neutralization: A Theory of Delinquency," proposes that delinquents aren't inherently opposed to societal norms. Instead, they use justifications, or "techniques of neutralization," to temporarily set aside societal rules when engaging in deviant behavior.1

These techniques include:
* Denial of responsibility: Blaming external factors.
* Denial of injury: Minimizing harm caused.
* Denial of the victim: Believing the victim deserved the outcome.
* Condemnation of the condemners: Shifting blame to authority figures.
* Appeal to higher loyalties: Prioritizing group needs over societal rules.1

This theory suggests that delinquents often acknowledge their actions are wrong but distort reality to make them seem acceptable under certain circumstances.1