Non serviam: Narrative dimensions of organized crime resistance and susceptibility

Abstract

This study delves into the narrative criminological facets of Agnew's (2016) four-factor theory on crime resistance and susceptibility, particularly within the realm of organized crime. Drawing insights from thirty-two interviews with college students and other young adults residing in a Mafia-influenced area, the study observes that the four inducements to crime—Negativity, Pleasure and Sensation Seeking, Conventional Efficacy and Perceived Social Support, and Environmental Sensitivity—also manifest as narratives that inspire or induce a resistance to an affiliation with organized crime. Nevertheless, the distinct nuances of narrative criminology and the unique characteristics of organized crime reveal additional influencing factors. Cultural and discursive narrative themes, such as Familism, Opportunities and Careerism, and Ambiguities and Contradictions, highlight the capacity of narrative criminology to unearth dimensions and interpretations often overlooked by more traditional methodologies. Given these considerations, this study represents the inaugural endeavor to integrate narrative criminology within a formal theory of crime resistance and susceptibility.