strain theory

Question 1

why does crime and deviance happen

Answer 1

it is the result of the strain between the cultural goals and the structural factors

Question 2

structural factors

Answer 2

societies unequal opportunity structure

Question 3

cultural factors

Answer 3

the strong emphasis on success and weaker emphasis on achieving these through legitimate means

Question 4

the American dream

Answer 4

society is meritocratic and anybody who makes the effort can get ahead. eg- good job, big house, rich

Question 5

when people are restricted by social structures what happens?

Answer 5

strain to anomie or frustration

Question 6

adaptation to strain

Answer 6

innovation- accepting the goal but using illegitimate means to achieve it. usually people who lack legitimate opportunities

Question 7

what type of crimes does this explain?

Answer 7

utilitarian crimes (money)

Question 8

evaluation of strain theory

Answer 8

Marxists would say that this doesn’t explain why there is crimes of the suites when they already have the American dream