Strain and Anomie Theory

These flashcards cover key concepts and theories related to Strain and Anomie Theory as discussed in the lecture.

Social Structure Theories

Theories that examine crime as a product of social forces rather than individual differences, focusing on social arrangements within a society.

Strain Theory

A theory suggesting that social structures within society may pressure citizens to commit crime, often due to blocked legitimate pathways to achieving goals.

Anomie

A state or condition in society when norms are no longer effective in regulating behavior, often leading to deviance and suicide.

Organicism

The concept that society functions as an organism, where the interrelation of units is necessary for its survival and proper functioning.

Egoistic Suicide

Suicide resulting from a weakening of commitment to group values and goals, often when individuals rely solely on their own resources.

Altruistic Suicide

Suicide precipitated by an over-commitment to group values and norms.

Fatalistic Suicide

Suicide derived from excessive regulation, such as in slavery or imprisonment.

Innovators

Individuals who aspire to achieve conventional goals but use illegal means due to a lack of perceived legitimate opportunities.

General Strain Theory (GST)

A theory proposed by Robert Agnew, which suggests that strain can also result from negative relations and is determined by individual interpretations of the strain sources.

Merton’s Deviance Typology

A classification by Robert Merton that categorizes individuals based on their responses to societal goals and accepted means.