Assistant Professor, Department of Social Work, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab, India

Sutherland’s Theory of Differential Association, first articulated in the mid-20th century, remains one of the most influential frameworks in criminology. It posits that criminal behaviour is learned through interaction with others, emphasising the role of socialisation, peer influence, and cultural transmission in shaping deviance. This paper explores the contemporary relevance of the theory in light of modern criminological research, digital socialisation, and globalised crime networks. Drawing upon secondary data from recent scholarly works, the study examines how the theory explains current patterns of crime, including cybercrime, gang affiliation, and white-collar offences. The research objectives focus on understanding the adaptability of the theory to modern contexts, evaluating its explanatory power compared to alternative criminological theories, and identifying its limitations in addressing structural inequalities. The findings suggest that while the theory remains highly relevant, it requires integration with contemporary perspectives on technology, intersectionality, and systemic factors. Recommendations for future research highlight the need for interdisciplinary approaches that combine sociological, psychological, and technological insights.