Crime: Merton's Strain Theory

Question 1

What do strain theories argue?

Answer 1

They argue that people engage in deviant behaviour when they are unable to achieve socially approved goals by legitimate means.

Question 2

Merton adapted Durkheim’s concept of anomie to explain deviance. What two factors did he acknowledge?

Answer 2

• Structural factors.

- Cultural factors.

Question 3

Explain why structural factors apply to crime.

Answer 3

Society’s unequal opportunity structure.

Question 4

Explain how cultural factors apply to crime

Answer 4

The strong emphasis on success goals and the weaker emphasis on using legitimate means to achieve them.

Question 5

What does Merton argue about peoples positions in the social structure about how they respond to anomie. Name the 5 responses.

Answer 5

Their position in the social structure affects the ways they adapt or respond to anomie.
5 responses:
- Conformity.
- Innovation.
- Ritualism. 
- Retreatism.
- Rebellion.