Crim Theory - Chapter 4

Robert K. Merton

believed in structurally induced strain. Believed the U.S. places extraordinary and universal emphasis on economic success (The American Dream). Believed the cardinal American virtue is ambition. Believed social structure limits access to success.

Merlin’s strain theory

social structure and anomie produce strain and pressure for deviance

typology of adaptations

conformity, innovation, ritualism, retreatism, and rebellion

conformity

conforming to society’s adaptations

innovation

embracing success but turning it into illegitimate means. Ends justify means

ritualism

following the rules set by society, but giving up on goals

retreatism

giving up on both the goals society deems important and the accepted ways of achieving the goals

rebellion

not only reject but wish to change the existing system

4 deviant adaptaions

innovation, ritualism, retreatism, rebellion

the most common adaptation

conformity

anomie

erosion or absence of norms, standards, or values. Lack of rules and clarity results in feelings of worthlessness, frustration, lack of purpose, and despair

cultural homogeneity

Everything is the same

Cohen

wrote “Delinquent Boys: Culture of the Gang”

Delinquent Boys

Had the idea that delinquent gangs and the values they embrace are concentrated in the urban slums. Class-based status discontent supports delinquency.

delinquency and opportunity theory

The disparity between what lower-class youths are led to want and what is actually available to them is the source of the problem. Delinquent subcultures exist only where enough youth are concentrated to band together to support one another’s delinquency

3 types of subcultures

criminal subculture in organized neighborhoods, conflict or fighting-oriented subculture in disorganized neighborhoods, and the retreatist or drug-using subculture