mertons strain theory

strain theory

robert merton - if u dont achieve cultural goal, there will be frustration

cultural goals = specific ways to achieve (which not everyone can)

american dream

anyone regardless of who they are can attain their own versions of success

upward mobility for hard work

conformity

follow societal goals legitly

school hard work

ritualism

reject achieving success but abide by societal norms

employee who follows rules but doesnt try

retreatism

reject goals & means, withdrawing from society

outside conventional norms

drug addict hermit

innovators

acceptance of societal goals but through unnaproved means

get rich thru fraud

rebellion

new goals w/ new means

replace societal goals entirely