Strain Theory

Source: US Census, 2000

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

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

Agnew’s (1992) Strain Theory Blocked Goals Corrective Actions Negative Emotions (mostly anger, but also anxiety and depression)

The American Dream Culturally valued goals Money, status, material objects Legitimate means Hard work, perseverance

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

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

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)

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

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

Policy Implications of Strain Theory Equalize opportunities for success De-emphasize material success goals Re-emphasize playing by the rules