Explain Robert K. Merton's strain theory regarding crime and criminality

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According to Robert K. Merton's strain theory, the ‘American Dream’ encouraged individuals to attain success. The aim to sachieve seems probable as the American society presents equal opportunity to everyone regardless of class, gender or ethnicity. In the American Dream the more material and wealth one possesses more successful they are considered. Merton argued that these goals were not attainable by all. As the means to achieve the success is not fairly distributed and it was difficult, if not impossible for some to compete an achieve financial success. This leads to strain which may lead the individuals to commit crimes. For example; individuals get involved in selling drugs or prostitution to gain financial security

Strain may either be:

1. Structural: this refers to the processes at the societal level. If the social structures present barriers that are inherently part of the structure or there is inadequate regulation, this may change the individual's perceptions as to means and opportunities; or

2. Individual: this refers to the frictions and pains experienced by an individual as he or she looks for ways to satisfy his or her needs. In other words, if the goal attainment become significant to an individual, actually achieving them may become more important than the means adopted.

Hayet Jeridi answered 9 months ago

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