This document discusses criminological theory and differential association theory. It examines the concepts of criminological theory and the history of criminological theory. Differential association theory, proposed by Edwin Sutherland in 1939, is summarized as suggesting criminal behavior is learned through interaction with others who engage in criminal behavior and have favorable definitions toward crime. The theory emphasizes that through social interaction and communication within intimate personal groups, individuals learn criminal patterns of behavior. Implications for prevention and control of crime are considered.