Strain and Anomie Theory

Question 1

What do the Strain Theory and Anomie Theory attempt to explain?

Answer 1

Causes of deviant behaviour

Question 2

Anomie Theory (Durkheim) states that there is a breakdown of:

Answer 2

the moral authority of collective consciousness where society can’t regulate the appetites of individual conscience leading to mass non-conformity and crime

Idea we’re not born with a selfish gene/deviance but that our culture perpetuates these selfish appetites

Question 3

Example of the anomie theory:

Answer 3

Eg single mother forced to commit crimes if she can’t get a job/social support to pay for expenses for herself & child

Question 4

The Strain Theory (Merton) states that certain strains or stressors

Answer 4

increase the likelihood of crime - these lead to negative emotions which can create pressure for corrective action, crime being a possible response

Question 5

Under the Strain Theory, crime may be used to do what 3 possible things

Answer 5

(1) reduce or escape from strain,
(2) seek revenge against the source of strain or related targets, or
(3) alleviate negative emotions.

Question 6

Example of strain theory for person experiencing chronic unemployment. What might they do per the strain theory?

Answer 6

(1) engage in theft or drug selling to obtain money,
(2) seek revenge against the person who fired them, or
(3) take illicit drugs in an effort to feel better.