Current Directions

Question 1

Two components of Merton’s Theory

Answer 1

• Anomie, which is the structural component of the disjunction between goals and means and causes normlessness
• Strain, which is the adaptation to blocked opporttunities

Question 2

Focus that Defines Strain

Answer 2

Motivation; that is to say strain theories require that people be motivated to commit criminal and deviant acts

Question 3

Concerns About the Theory

Answer 3

Concerns were raised, questioning the way that the theory was developed (micro/macro level)