📚 Learning Guide
Merton's Strain Theory
easy

According to Merton's Strain Theory, what term describes a society that fails to provide sufficient means for individuals to achieve culturally approved goals, leading to confusion and a breakdown of social norms?

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Learning Path
Learning Path

Question & Answer
1
Understand Question
2
Review Options
3
Learn Explanation
4
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Choose the Best Answer

A

Anomie

B

Conformity

C

Innovation

D

Ritualism

Understanding the Answer

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Answer

According to Merton's Strain Theory, the term that describes a society failing to provide enough means for individuals to achieve culturally approved goals is "anomie. " Anomie occurs when people feel disconnected from the social norms and values that usually guide their behavior, leading to confusion about what is acceptable. For example, if a society highly values success through education but does not provide equal access to quality schools, many individuals may feel frustrated and lost. This lack of direction can result in increased crime or deviance as people seek alternative ways to achieve their goals. Ultimately, anomie highlights the gap between societal expectations and the reality of individuals' opportunities.

Detailed Explanation

Anomie happens when people feel lost and confused because they can't reach their goals. Other options are incorrect because Conformity means following rules and norms; Innovation is about creating new ways to achieve goals.

Key Concepts

Anomie
Topic

Merton's Strain Theory

Difficulty

easy level question

Cognitive Level

understand

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