■ Social disorganization theory. This theory
suggests that the natural ability of
people to control deviancy in their neighborhoods
is impaired in some areas by
constant residential turnover and net outmigration. These changes either disrupt
social networks or prevent such
networks from forming. Since these networks,
according to disorganization theory,
are responsible for most social
control in neighborhoods, their absence
leads to higher levels of deviancy. Other
factors, such as poverty and racism, also
have been identified as undermining
social networks.