Theories Of Crimes Def

Question 1

Define anomie..

Answer 1

Refers to when rules governing behaviour are weaker and less clear cut. A condition of instability from a breakdown of standards and values often experienced by people or groups who don’t have clear goals or cannot reach collective goals in society (durkeim coined)

Question 2

Define strain theory..

Answer 2

This refers to when individuals of groups share culturally upheld desirable goals such as success but have the inability to achieve these goals through legitimate means to the institutional structure of society, creating strain. (Merton coined)

Question 3

Atrophy define..

Answer 3

This refers to anomie and resulting deviant behaviour breaking down social solidarity and weakens value consensus. Erosion of societies norms and values.