Q1. What is a theory?

Distinguish a model from a theory and examine the conflict theory in the
context of Kenya.

A theory is a well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world that can incorporate
laws, hypotheses and facts. The theory of gravitation, for instance, explains why apples fall from trees
and astronauts float in space.

In various fields, such as science, philosophy, and social sciences, theories are developed to provide
explanations for natural or social phenomena. Theories are typically based on empirical evidence, logical
reasoning, and rigorous experimentation, and they aim to explain why and how certain events occur.

Distinguishing a model from a theory

A theory is a conceptualized framework. It is a generalized phenomenon which is accepted by many

people in the society. Model, on the other hand, is a physical, symbolical, or verbal representation of a
concept which has been found in order to make the understanding of something clearer.

Theories can be considered as answers to various problems identified especially in the scientific world
while models can be considered as a representation created in order to explain a theory.

A theory is based on observations and explains as "pure thought" the phenomena qualitatively. A
model is based on measurements and explains the phenomena quantitatively.

A model and a theory are two different concepts in the realm of scientific understanding and inquiry.

A model is a simplified representation or explanation of a system or phenomenon. It is a

conceptual framework or tool that helps us understand and make predictions about the real world.
Models can take various forms, such as mathematical equations, computer simulations, conceptual
diagrams, or physical replicas. They are created to capture the essential features and behaviors of a
system under study, while ignoring or abstracting away irrelevant details. Models are useful for testing
hypotheses, making predictions, and gaining insights into complex phenomena.

On the other hand, a theory is a well-substantiated explanation or framework that is based on a

wide range of evidence and observations. A theory goes beyond a model, as it provides a deeper
understanding and comprehensive explanation of natural phenomena. It is a broader and more
generalized explanation that can be used to explain multiple related observations. A scientific theory is
supported by extensive empirical evidence, and it undergoes rigorous testing, scrutiny, and refinement
over time.

Conflict theory and how is used in the context of Kenya

Conflict theory, first developed by Karl Marx, is a theory that society is in a state of perpetual conflict
because of competition for limited resources. Conflict theory holds that social order is maintained by
domination and power, rather than by consensus and conformity.
 Conflict theory is based on the thought that groups always compete for limited resources and control,
resulting in inequalities in those groups and their associated professions. Conflict occurs when unequal
amounts of resources and power exist. The people with more power and resources try to maintain them
and may even do so by repressing those with less power and fewer resources.

Sociologists use conflict theory to explain conflict and inequality between groups, including:

(I) Social classes

(II) Genders

(III) Race

(IV) Religions

(V) Political group

(VI) Cultures

One of conflict theory's main ideas is that power and conflict, rather than agreement and harmony,
control social order. This conflict and competition often provide inspiration that can lead to social
change.

The conflict theory can be applied in the context of Kenya to understand various social issues and
tensions that arise due to unequal distribution of resources and power.

(1) Economic inequality

Karl Marx attributes inequality, resentment and violence to economic discrimination and unequal access
to resources. Unequal access to resources, such as land, capital and vast differences in standard of living;
growing inequalities and gaps, between the rich and poor, can aggravate intra-state tensions. Research
has shown that in Kenya, 10% of the population control 42% of the country’s income, 80% of the
population control 48% of income; while the bottom 10% of the population control less than 1%.

(2). Ethnic and Tribal Conflicts

Kenya has experienced recurring ethnic and tribal conflicts, particularly during elections. Conflict theory
helps analyze the distribution of power and resources among different ethnic groups, which often leads
to tensions and competition. Historical injustices, land disputes, and unequal access to economic
opportunities are factors that contribute to these conflicts.

(3) . Political Power Struggles

The pursuit of political power and control over state resources is another area where conflict theory can
be applied in the Kenyan context. Political parties, elites, and different interest groups often compete for
power and resources, leading to conflicts and social unrest. Political clientelism and corruption can
further exacerbate these power struggles, resulting in unequal representation and resource allocation.
(4) . Gender Inequality

Conflict theory also helps analyze gender-based inequalities and power dynamics in Kenya. Women
often face discrimination and limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. The
struggle for gender equality and women's empowerment can be understood through the lens of conflict
theory, as it highlights the power imbalances and social dynamics that perpetuate gender-based
disparities.

References

OJ Bartos, P Wehr - 2002

MS Rusu - Social Change Review, 2020

AP Brief, EE Umphress, J Dietz… - Academy of …, 2005 - journals.aom.org

Q2. Relate Sigmund Freud theory to Juvenile delinquency and expound on the psychoanalysis theory
of conflict.

Freud argued that unconscious mental processes controlled an adolescent’s behavior. According to
Freud’s theory, the Id is the drive for immediate gratification and explains deviant behavior such as
shoplifting or burglary. The ego is the realization of real life and helps control the Id. Superego is
developed through interactions with parents and other responsible adults. This psychoanalytical
approach states that traumatic experiences during early childhood can prevent the ego and superego
from developing properly, therefore leaving the Id with greater influence .More generally,
psychodynamic theory sees criminal behavior as a conflict between the id, ego and superego. This
conflict can lead to people developing problematic behavior and delinquency.

Sigmund Freud, the renowned psychoanalyst, developed several theories that can offer insights into the
relationship between his ideas and juvenile delinquency. Although Freud did not directly discuss juvenile
delinquency in his work, his theories on child development, personality structure, and unconscious
motivations can be indirectly related to understanding the factors contributing to delinquent behavior in
adolescents.

1. Psychosexual Development

Freud proposed that children pass through five psychosexual stages of development: oral, anal, phallic,
latency, and genital. According to Freud, if a child does not successfully navigate a particular stage, it can
result in fixation or unresolved conflicts, which may manifest in various ways, including delinquent
behavior. Therefore, if a child faces challenges or traumatic experiences during their psychosexual
development, it could potentially contribute to their engagement in delinquency as they grow older.
2. Personality Structure

Freud divided the human psyche into three parts: the id, ego, and superego. The id represents the
instinctual and impulsive part of our personality, seeking immediate gratification. The ego is the rational
and reality-oriented part that balances the desires of the id with the constraints of the external world.
The superego represents the internalized moral standards and societal expectations.When it comes to
delinquency, an imbalance between these three elements can play a role. For example, if an
adolescent's superego is weak, lacking adequate internalized moral standards, they may be more prone
to engaging in delinquent behavior driven by their id's desires without considering the consequences.

3. Unconscious Motivations

Freud emphasized the significance of unconscious motivations in shaping human behavior. He believed
that repressed thoughts, desires, or unresolved conflicts could influence our actions without our
conscious awareness. In the context of juvenile delinquency, Freud's theory suggests that unconscious
motivations stemming from childhood experiences, trauma, or unresolved conflicts could manifest in
delinquent behavior as a way to cope or express inner conflicts.

Expounding on the psychoanalysis theory of conflict

The psychoanalytic approach focuses on deciphering how the unconscious mind governs conscious
processes in ways that interfere with healthy psychological functioning.

It is built on the foundational idea that biologically determined unconscious forces drive human
behavior, often rooted in early experiences of attempting to get our basic needs met. However, these
remain out of conscious awareness.

Psychoanalysis engages in a process of inquiry into adult defenses against unacceptable unconscious
desires rooted in these early experiences and emphasizes their importance as the bedrock of adult
psychological functioning.

In this model, there are three components to the mind:

Id

The id operates at an unconscious level as the motor of our two main instinctual drives: Eros, or the
survival instinct that drives us to engage in life-sustaining activities, and Thanatos, or the death instinct
that drives destructive, aggressive, and violent behavior.

Ego
The ego acts as a filter for the id that works as both a conduit for and check on our unconscious drives.
The ego ensures our needs are met in a socially appropriate way. It is oriented to navigating reality and
begins to develop in infancy.

Superego

The superego is the term Freud gives to “conscience” where morality and higher principles reside,
encouraging us to act in socially and morally acceptable ways .

Critics of psychoanalysis theory of conflicts

Critics of psychoanalysis theory of conflicts have voiced several concerns and objections. Some of the
main criticisms include:

1. Lack of scientific evidence

Many critics argue that psychoanalysis lacks empirical evidence to support its claims and theories. Since
it is primarily based on subjective interpretations and introspection, it can be challenging to scientifically
measure or validate its concepts.

2. Overemphasis on early childhood experiences

Critics argue that psychoanalysis places excessive emphasis on early childhood experiences, particularly
on experiences related to sexual development and the Oedipus complex. They argue that this focus
neglects the influence of other aspects of an individual's life, such as social factors or personal growth
beyond early childhood.

3. Lack of testability and falsifiability

Some critics assert that psychoanalysis is difficult to test and lacks a clear set of falsifiable hypotheses.
As a result, they argue that it is not consistent with the principles of empirical science, making it
challenging to determine its validity or reliability.

4. Limited cultural and gender applicability

Critics argue that psychoanalysis tends to be biased towards Western, middle-class, male experiences
and may not adequately consider the diverse cultural, social, and gender-specific factors that can
influence human behavior and conflicts.

Citations

Eagle, M. N. (2007). Psychoanalysis and its critics. Psychoanalytic Psychology, 24(1), 10–24.

Frosh, S. (2016). For and against psychoanalysis. Routledge.

Gay, P. (2006). Freud: A life for our time. W. W. Norton.