1. Agnew’s General Strain Theory  Agnew expanded Merton’s theory to explain criminal behaviour.  Agnew argues that failure to achieve material goals is not the only reason for committing crime.  He suggests that negative relationships with others leads to negative emotions and are causal factors for criminal behaviours. ©2012 McGraw-Hill Ryerson Ltd.LO3

2. Agnew’s Three Main Types of Negative Relationships  Strain caused by failure to achieve positively valued goals.  Strain caused by the removal of positively valued stimuli from the individual.  Strain caused by the presentation of negative stimuli. Not all persons who experience strain become criminals. Not all persons who experience strain become criminals. ©2012 McGraw-Hill Ryerson Ltd.LO3

3. General Strain Theory Develops a Crime–Prevention Strategy  Example: The Pathways to Education Program at Regent Park Community Health Centre in Toronto: The Pathways to Education Program at Regent Park Community Health Centre in Toronto: Provides key support to young people and their families through – academic support, mentoring, financial support and Student/Parent Support Workers assist students to be more engaged with secondary schools.Provides key support to young people and their families through – academic support, mentoring, financial support and Student/Parent Support Workers assist students to be more engaged with secondary schools. ©2012 McGraw-Hill Ryerson Ltd.LO3