Functionalism – Merton's Strain Theory

Strain Theory

A theory that suggests people engage in deviant behavior when they are unable to achieve socially approved goals by legitimate means, leading to strain.

Anomie

A state of normlessness or breakdown of social norms in a society, introduced by Durkheim and adapted by Merton.

Structural Factors

Elements of society's unequal opportunity structure that contribute to strain and deviance.

Cultural Factors

Societal emphasis on success goals compared to the weaker emphasis on legitimate means to achieve them.

Conformity

Accepting culturally approved goals and striving to achieve them using legitimate means.

Innovation

Accepting the goal of monetary success while rejecting legitimate means, often using illegal methods.

Ritualism

Giving up on achieving mainstream goals but adhering to legitimate means for their own sake.

Retreatism

Rejecting both mainstream goals and legitimate means, leading to dropping out of society.

Rebellion

Rejecting existing societal goals and means and replacing them with new ones to instigate change.

The American Dream

The belief that anyone can achieve success through hard work and legitimate means, though many face real barriers.

Meritocracy

A societal structure where success is based on individual ability and effort.

Deviant Adaptations to Strain

Different responses individuals may have to strain, including conformity, innovation, ritualism, retreatism, and rebellion.

Criticisms of Strain Theory

Arguments against the theory including overly deterministic views, ignoring ruling class power, and limited scope to utilitarian crimes.

Pressure to Anomie

The tension between cultural goals and legitimate means that leads individuals to deviance.

Property Crime

A type of crime most prevalent in America, often driven by the societal value placed on material wealth.

Marxists' Critique

The perspective that strain theory overlooks how the ruling class influences laws to criminalize the poor.