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Article 1: Hanna, R.C., Crittenden, V.L., and Crittenden, W.F., (2013) Social learning theory: A multicultural study of the influences on ethical behavior Journal of Marketing Education April 2013 vol. 35 no. 1 18-25.

Abstract: 

We propose Social Learning Theory as a theoretical foundation for understanding the ethical standards of future business leaders. Using data drawn from students from 115 four-year undergraduate institutions in 36 different countries, the relationships among role models, capitalism, and laws were examined. The data suggest that future business leaders educated in environments espousing all moral philosophies except virtue ethics are influenced by their role models. However, differences in unethical behavior are found as related to the social influences of capitalism and laws.

Summary: 

Social learning theory (SLT) proposes that people learn much of their behavior by observation and imitation of others. The researchers used college students, specifically 6331 future business leaders from 4-year institutions in 36 countries to determine the impact that social learning theory has on ethical behavior.

Questions to Consider: 

1. Discuss the five major moral philosophies of the world as identified in this article?
    
2. What is the biggest driver of unethical behavior of unethical behavior in formalist societies?
    
3. What is the biggest driver of unethical behavior in virtue ethics societies?
    
4. What is the impact of gender and religiosity on unethical behavior?
    

Article 2: Church, W. T., Wharton, T., & Taylor, J. K. (2009). An examination of differential association and social control theory: Family systems and delinquency. Youth Violence and Juvenile Justice, 7, 3-15.

Abstract: 

This study applies differential association and social control theories to juvenile delinquency. Using a path analysis model, relationships between family, self-image, and behavior are explored. Analyses suggest that positive self-image leads to decreased delinquency, and association with delinquent peers is the greatest predictor of delinquent behavior, regardless of race.

Summary: 

Differential association theory states that deviant behavior is learned through interaction with others. The researchers use differential association theory to frame individual choices and social control theory to frame which choices are made and together they create linkages between risk factors and delinquent behavior.

Questions to Consider: 

1. Identify the study variables.
    
2. In this study what did the researchers note as the strongest predictor of delinquency?
    
3. What impact does gender have on delinquency?
    
4. This article was published in 2009, however uses data collected from 1976 to 1980. What impact, if any, do you think the data collection time frame has on this study?
    

Article 3: Michalski JH (2004) Making sociological sense out of trends in intimate partner violence. Violence Against Women 10(6): 652–675.

Abstract: 

Despite evidence of a cultural shift in orientations toward violence, the problem of violence against women persists across a range of different societies. The preoccupation with the psychology of violence and the focus on cultural orientations obscure the more salient features of social life that promote violence: the structure of interpersonal relationships. The exploration of sociodemographic correlates and the search for “risk factors” of intimate partner violence have overshadowed the inclusion of a distinct set of social structural characteristics that are conducive to domestic violence. The current article draws on comparative research and Donald Black’s theoretical approach to argue that key factors include (a) the degree of social isolation, (b) interdependence of support networks, (c) inequality, (d) relational distance, (e) centralization of authority, and (f) exposure to violent networks. The weak explanatory power of previous research can be improved by developing measures to evaluate an integrated structural model of violence against women.

Summary: 

Using the social structure of interpersonal relationships, the author discusses various characteristics associated intimate partner violence.

Questions to Consider:

1. How does this study suggest that conflict can be handled in a nonviolent manner?
    
2. What impact does an equalitarian relationship (partner equality in terms of power and decision making) have on domestic violence?
    
3. Why does the author state that a social structure explanation of domestic violence can be  applied across cultures?