Which of the following is a key component of strain theory, proposed by robert merton?

Question: Which of the following is a key component of strain theory, proposed by robert merton?

A key component of strain theory, proposed by Robert Merton, is the disjunction between culturally defined goals and the socially approved means of achieving those goals. This disjunction can lead to strain, which can in turn lead to deviant behavior.

For example, in a society that values economic success and material possessions, but where many people lack the legitimate means to achieve these goals, some people may turn to crime in order to achieve their goals. This is an example of strain theory in action.

Merton also proposed five different modes of adaptation to strain:

• Conformity: Individuals accept both the culturally defined goals and the socially approved means of achieving those goals.
• Innovation: Individuals accept the culturally defined goals but reject the socially approved means of achieving those goals. Instead, they use illegitimate means to achieve their goals.
• Ritualism: Individuals reject the culturally defined goals but accept the socially approved means of achieving those goals. They go through the motions of trying to achieve the goals, but they are not really interested in achieving them.
• Retreatism: Individuals reject both the culturally defined goals and the socially approved means of achieving those goals. They withdraw from society and no longer participate in the pursuit of success.
• Rebellion: Individuals reject both the culturally defined goals and the socially approved means of achieving those goals. They seek to change society to create new goals and new means of achieving those goals.

Strain theory is a complex and nuanced theory, but it is a useful framework for understanding the relationship between crime and social structure. It helps us to understand why some people are more likely to commit crimes than others, and it suggests ways to reduce crime by addressing the root causes of strain.

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