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Strain Theory
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Source: US Census, 2000
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Strain Theory is about Deviant Motivation Assumption #1: We are all naturally law- abiding, if given the chance Assumption #2: We break rules when we experience strain Assumption #3: Strain originates in our social experience
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What do you do when bad things happen? A parent abuses you physically You fail a test you studied for Your partner dumps you Your dad dies suddenly Your parents get a divorce You become a crime victim
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Agnew’s (1992) Strain Theory Blocked Goals Corrective Actions Negative Emotions (mostly anger, but also anxiety and depression)
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The American Dream Culturally valued goals Money, status, material objects Legitimate means Hard work, perseverance
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Merton’s (1938) Strain Theory: A Critique of U.S. Society Critique #1: Our culture’s requirement that people achieve success (i.e., wealth) is stronger than its requirement that they play by the rules to attain it Critique #2: There is a mismatch between our culture’s universal success goals (wealth) and people’s differential access to the legitimate means to achieving those goals
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Merton’s Adaptations to Strain Mode of Adaptation Adhere to Cultural Goals Adhere to Legitimate Means ConformityYes RitualismNoYes InnovationYesNo RetreatismNo RebellionReject culture, strive for change Can use legitimate means or not
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Albert Cohen: Strain Theory and Delinquent Subculture Strain: Lower class youth fail to achieve middle class standards ( “middle class measuring rod”) -> strain (status frustration) Reduce strain by creating an alternative status system - a group solution to the problem of strain Oppositional subculture: Middle class values upside down Explains non-utilitarian deviance (e.g., vandalism)
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Strain & “Anomie” in Society Disjuncture between socially valued goals and legitimate means for achieving those goals Anomie = a state of “normlessness” in society Rules inspire less commitment We don’t trust that others will follow rules
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Overview of Strain Theories Agnew’s Strain Theory Blocked goals->negative emotion->corrective action Merton’s Strain Theory Success is valued more than playing by the rules Differential access to legitimate means Cohen’s Strain Theory Oppositional/delinquent adaptation to status frustration
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Policy Implications of Strain Theory Equalize opportunities for success De-emphasize material success goals Re-emphasize playing by the rules
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