Robert Mertons theory of strain theory

Question 1

What date did Robert Merton develop strain theory?

Answer 1

1968

Question 2

what perspective is Merton’s theory?

Answer 2

Functionalist

Question 3

What was this theory based on?

Answer 3

Durkheim 1858

Question 4

What does strain theory argue?

Answer 4

argues that deviance results from the tension that arises from dysfunctional social arrangements.

Question 5

How does this differ from Durkheim?

Answer 5

That anomie doesn’t result from an absence of ambiguity of cultural values but instead, it is a discrepancy between cultural goals and their means of achievement.

Question 6

What is Merton’s argument critiquing?

Answer 6

Of the American dream, which normalises excessive material success without means for its achievement.

Question 7

What are the five typologies of Merton’s theory?

Answer 7

CIRRR. Conformism, innovation, ritualism, retreatism, rebellion.

Question 8

What is the criticism of Merton’s strain theory?

Answer 8

Merton fails to account for non-utilitarian crime.

He concentrates specifically on lower classes although persons of all socioeconomic classes engage in crime.

He could not explain crimes other than financial crimes.

Question 9

Positive?

Answer 9

is effective in explaining financial crimes