They noted that ‘relative’ crime rates in the inner city were similar over a number of years, even though the immigrant groups dominating the zone had changed. This indicated that the high crime rates were not due to the specific cultural characteristics of specific immigrant groups.

Shaw and McKay concluded that the constant movement of people in and out of these areas prevented the formation of stable communities and a sense of social control. Instead, it produced a state of social disorganisation, with little sense of community. As a result, people were unlikely to feel a sense of duty and obligation to one another, an so felt little guilt about committing crimes against their neighbours. 

Shaw and McKay note that areas of social disorganisation produce subcultures of delinquency, which culturally transmit criminal behaviour, skills and values from one generation to the next. This cultural transmission ensures that young criminals, whether male or female, learn criminal skills and traditions from the older generation, and that social disorganisation is produced and maintained. 

Marshall et al suggest that zones of transition made up a sink estates and deteriorating inner city areas can be spotted in UK cities. They argue that these areas lack any sense of community spirit or social control. Such disorganising is reinforced by the state’s failure to address social problems such as unemployment, poverty, poor mental health and drug and alcohol abuse.