David Matza is an American sociologist best known for his work in the field of criminology. He gained prominence in the 1960s with his book, Delinquency and Drift, which introduced the concept of "drift" to explain how individuals, particularly youth, navigate between conformity and deviance. Matza's theories emphasize the fluidity of social behavior and the influence of societal norms. In addition to his work on delinquency, Matza has contributed to the understanding of social control and deviance. His research has influenced various areas within sociology, including the study of subcultures and the dynamics of youth behavior. Matza's insights continue to be relevant in contemporary discussions about crime and social behavior.