Overview
Strain Theory is a sociological framework that explains how societal pressures can lead individuals to engage in criminal behavior when they feel unable to achieve culturally approved goals through legitimate means. Developed by Robert Merton, the theory highlights the importance of understanding th...
Key Terms
Example: A person feeling strain may resort to theft to achieve financial success.
Example: Wealth and education are common cultural goals.
Example: Education and hard work are considered legitimate means.
Example: Robbery is an example of deviant behavior.
Example: Anomie can lead to increased crime rates in a community.
Example: Merton identified five modes of individual adaptation to strain.
Related Topics
Social Control Theory
Explores how societal norms and values influence individual behavior and prevent deviance.
intermediateLabeling Theory
Examines how being labeled as deviant can influence an individual's self-identity and behavior.
intermediateRoutine Activity Theory
Focuses on how everyday activities can create opportunities for crime.
intermediateKey Concepts
Social StrainCultural GoalsLegitimate MeansDeviant Behavior