The theory I have chosen to discuss is the strain theory. Before Agnew had developed his adaptation of strain theory, Durkheim had introduced the term “anomie” – the break down of social order as a result of the loss of standards and values – before the end of the nineteenth century. After Durkheim, came Merton. He also related his theories to anomie, but his predictions slightly differed from those of Durkheim's. Merton argued that “The real problem is created not by sudden social change but by a social structure that holds out the same goals to all its members without giving them equal means to achieve them. This lack of integration between what the culture calls for and what the structure permits, the former encouraging success and the latter …show more content…
It is then more likely for those who do not meet society's and their own expectations are more likely to be frustrated with the circumstances and sometimes may result in delinquency. Merton created five possible modes of adaptation for those who were denied the opportunity to reach society's goals: conformity, innovation, ritualism, retreatism, and rebellion. Robert Agnew revised Merton's theory in order to give us a broader explanation of criminal behavior. This revised theory is called General Strain Theory. He argues that criminal behavior can not only be related to the failure to reach goals, but also to the anger one might feel when treated the right way. There are three key points discussed in …show more content…
Losing someone is a very powerful and hurtful emotion to experience, and everyone reacts differently. Sometimes people choose to channel their emotions into anger and revenge, and seek revenge against those who they believe caused them their pain. Strain brought up by the loss of positively valued stimuli could lead to delinquency. The loss of them doesn't even have to be after a death. The end of a meaningful relationship could arouse the same feelings as if you were actually mourning the loss of someone. Lastly, is the presence of negative stimuli. This could be the presence of an abusive loved one, bullying by peers, or criminal victimization. Criminal behavior in any of these situations may result when an individual attempts to run away from the problem, end the problem, or seek revenge against those who are creating the problem. The general strain theory could definitely be used to describe criminal behavior because when someone experiences strain they are more likely to result in criminal behavior. The three main factors of strain are three main causes as to why someone decides to commit a crime. Especially in todays world where there are many media-approved “goals” and “wishes” made popular by others on social media, it is also becoming harder for those to reach these goals, and easier for them to steal