Podcast
Questions and Answers
What does strain theory primarily suggest about deviant behavior?
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?
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?
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?
What scenario best illustrates 'retreating poor' behavior?
What does the term 'ritualism' refer to in strain theory?
What does the term 'ritualism' refer to in strain theory?
What common assumption about crime is exemplified in the notion that 'poverty breeds crime'?
What common assumption about crime is exemplified in the notion that 'poverty breeds crime'?
According to strain theory, what happens when societal goals and acceptable methods are misaligned?
According to strain theory, what happens when societal goals and acceptable methods are misaligned?
Which of the following best exemplifies 'passive poor' in strain theory?
Which of the following best exemplifies 'passive poor' in strain theory?
Flashcards
Strain Theory
Strain Theory
A sociological theory suggesting society can pressure individuals into criminal behavior.
Deviant Behavior
Deviant Behavior
Actions that violate social norms or expectations.
Conformity
Conformity
Accepting goals and using approved ways to meet them.
Innovation
Innovation
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Ritualism
Ritualism
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Retreatism
Retreatism
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Cultural Goals
Cultural Goals
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Socially Accepted Means
Socially Accepted Means
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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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