The social learning theory, known as 'differential-association-reinforcement theory,' was developed by Burgess and Akers in 1966 and used the principles and vocabulary of operant conditioning to specify the learning process alluded to in Sutherland's theory of differential association. Sutherland's theory of differential association, called the most widely known and influential perspective in criminology, posits that both criminal and conventional behaviors are learned in association with parents, peers, and other siginificant adults. The author discusses the logical and substantive adequacy of social learning theory and points out two controversies surrounding the theory. First, is the theory a tautology and hence irrefutable? Second, should social or nonsocial reinforcers be emphasized in explaining human behavior? The author reviews research on social learning variables and research testing social learning theory, pointing out that very little research has been conducted on deviant or criminal behavior in order to test a social learning model. To date, the theory of 'differential-association-reinforcement' has only been researched in relation to substance abuse among adolescents. Future research of the theory must include the collection of more longitudinal data and the study of other delinquent behaviors. 2 figures and 82 references.