📚 Learning Guide
Merton's Strain Theory
easy

According to Merton's Strain Theory, which of the following best describes the 'institutional means' available for achieving societal goals?

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Learning Path

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Choose the Best Answer

A

Legal pathways like education and employment

B

Unconventional methods like crime

C

Withdrawal from societal goals

D

Rejection of social norms

Understanding the Answer

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Answer

Merton's Strain Theory explains how people strive to achieve societal goals, like success and wealth, through accepted ways, which he calls "institutional means. " These means include education, hard work, and following laws, which society believes are the right paths to reach these goals. However, not everyone has the same access to these means due to factors like social class or discrimination. For example, a student from a wealthy background may have more opportunities for quality education compared to a student from a low-income family, making it harder for the latter to achieve the same goals. This difference can lead to feelings of frustration or strain, as not everyone can successfully use the institutional means available to them.

Detailed Explanation

Merton's Strain Theory says that people can reach their goals through accepted ways. Other options are incorrect because Some might think that crime is a way to achieve goals; Withdrawing means giving up on goals.

Key Concepts

Institutional Means
Topic

Merton's Strain Theory

Difficulty

easy level question

Cognitive Level

understand

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