Strain theory explains how social arrangements and cultural expectations can create pressure that makes deviance more likely. This lesson introduces the theory’s origins and central ideas.
Developed by Robert K. Merton in 1938, strain theory examines the relationship between society’s valued goals, access to approved ways of pursuing them, and deviant behavior. A society may strongly encourage goals such as financial success while distributing education, jobs, and other legitimate opportunities unevenly. The mismatch between goals and available means can create strain.
All flashcards
What is strain theory?
A criminological perspective explaining how social pressures and the gap between valued goals and available means can contribute to deviance.
What is structural strain?
Pressure arising from societal arrangements that shape people’s opportunities and perceptions.
What is individual strain?
The frustration a person experiences while trying to satisfy needs or reach goals.
What is role strain?
Difficulty meeting role expectations when a person’s obligations exceed available time, energy, or resources.
What does general strain theory add to Merton’s account?
It considers varied stressful experiences, the negative emotions they can produce, and how coping resources shape responses.
Quiz questions
In Merton’s typology, which adaptation accepts culturally valued goals but rejects approved means?Answer: Innovation: pursuing accepted goals through unapproved means.
Which three sources of strain did Agnew identify in general strain theory?Answer: Failure to achieve valued goals, loss of positive stimuli, and presentation of negative stimuli.
What is central to institutional anomie theory?Answer: Economic dominance can weaken non-economic institutions and contribute to crime.
What factor do Cloward and Ohlin’s illegitimate opportunities theory add to explanations of delinquency?Answer: Access to unlawful opportunities varies across environments.
If research finds an association between neighborhood disadvantage and drug use, what can that finding establish by itself?Answer: An association consistent with strain, but not that strain alone caused drug use.