According to criminologists like Thorsten Sellin, crime may result when the __________ of different groups clash.

The idea that crime can result from the clash of conduct norms highlights the importance of cultural differences and how societal expectations can shape behavior. Thorsten Sellin, a prominent criminologist, introduced the concept of "conduct norms," which refers to the socially accepted rules that dictate appropriate behavior within different groups or societies. When individuals from different cultural backgrounds come into contact, their varying conduct norms may lead to misunderstandings and conflicts.

For instance, what one group may view as acceptable behavior might be considered deviant by another group's standards. This clash can create situations where individuals act in ways that infringe on the laws or norms of a different group, resulting in criminal behavior. By focusing on conduct norms, this perspective emphasizes that crime is often a social construct and depends on the context of interactions among diverse groups rather than merely an inherent characteristic of certain individuals or actions.

This view contrasts with other potential answers. While social values, legal standards, and economic interests can also play significant roles in crime causation, Sellin specifically emphasized the relevance of conduct norms in understanding the dynamics of criminal behavior linked to cultural diversity and conflict. Thus, the correct answer focuses on the idea that differing norms regarding behavior among groups can lead to criminal outcomes when those norms clash.