A young man, feeling alienated from society and unable to secure a stable job, starts selling drugs to make money. Which response to societal pressure does this behavior exemplify according to Merton's Strain Theory?

The young man's decision to sell drugs shows a response to societal pressure called "innovation" in Merton's Strain Theory. This theory suggests that when people cannot achieve society's goals, like having a stable job and making money through accepted means, they may find alternative ways to reach those goals. In this case, the young man feels alienated and sees selling drugs as a way to earn money, even though it's illegal and frowned upon. For example, instead of looking for a traditional job, he chooses a risky path that he believes will help him gain success quickly. This behavior highlights how societal expectations can push individuals to find unconventional solutions when they feel blocked from achieving their dreams.