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Strain Theory of Deviance

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Questions and Answers

What does strain theory primarily suggest about deviant behavior?

It occurs when cultural goals and means are in balance.

It can be explained by tensions imposed by societal expectations. (correct)

It is not influenced by socioeconomic factors.

It is solely a result of individual choices.

Which response best describes 'conformity' in the context of strain theory?

Accepting and achieving goals through illegal means.

Living peacefully without any desire for societal achievement.

Abandoning the desire to meet cultural goals.

Adhering to accepted methods while striving toward sociocultural goals. (correct)

How does 'innovation' manifest according to strain theory?

Resorting to non-approved methods to reach accepted cultural goals. (correct)

Rejecting both the goals of society and the means to achieve them.

Pursuing goals through culturally accepted methods.

Accepting one's situation without striving for change.

What scenario best illustrates 'retreating poor' behavior?

People who no longer wish to achieve societal goals and engage in illegal activities. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'ritualism' refer to in strain theory?

Following established methods without the aim of achieving goals. Signup and view all the answers

What common assumption about crime is exemplified in the notion that 'poverty breeds crime'?

Societal conditions can push individuals toward deviance. Signup and view all the answers

According to strain theory, what happens when societal goals and acceptable methods are misaligned?

Individuals may resort to deviant behaviors to cope with tension. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best exemplifies 'passive poor' in strain theory?

Individuals who feel discontent but do not act upon it. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Strain Theory of Deviance

Strain theory, proposed by Robert Merton, suggests that societal structures can encourage deviance.
It arises when societal goals clash with available means to achieve them.
Examples of strains can include poverty, lack of access to education, or discrimination.

Reactions to Strain

Conformity: Individuals accept societal goals and pursue them through legitimate means. A good example is hopeful poor in the Philippines.
Innovation: Individuals accept societal goals but use illegitimate methods to achieve them. This encompasses surviving poor, like stealing or illegal activity.
Ritualism: Individuals give up on societal goals but continue using legitimate means. This group is described as the passive poor, content with their current situation.
Retreat: Individuals reject both societal goals and legitimate means. An example is the retreating poor who may engage in illegal activities despite lacking ambition.
Rebellion: Individuals reject both societal goals and means, advocating for new goals and methods; often seen in resisting poor who find new paths to improve their circumstances.

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Description

This quiz explores Robert Merton's Strain Theory of Deviance, which examines how societal structures can lead to deviant behavior. It discusses various reactions individuals may have to strain, including conformity, innovation, ritualism, and retreat. Test your understanding of these concepts and their implications.