Strain Theory

Strain theory - Merton

• Goal attainment

• 5 adaptations to strain

• Structural factors causing strain

• Cultural factors causing strain

Structural Factors

What institutions and structures allow them to achieve ( and prohibit )

Cultural Factors

The goals that society encourages individuals for.

Goal attainment

Individuals trying to achieve society's institutionalised goals, i.e. in modern societies these are usually material goals, such as private property. An example of a goal is the American Dream.

5 adaptations to strain

• conformity

• innovation

• ritualism

• retreatism

• rebellion

Conformity

Having the means of meeting societal goals and meeting them WITHOUT resorting to deviant acts.

Innovation

Not having the means of meeting societal goals and meeting them BY COMMITTING deviant acts.

Ritualism

Not having the means of meeting societal goals and therefore doesn't pursue them. i.e working - 9 to 5..

Retreatism

Not having the means of meeting societal goals and resorting to ISOLATIONIST behaviour to COPE.

Rebellion

Don't attempt to meet societal goals and instead try and revolutionise what those goals are.