Strain theory

Definition

Strain theory suggests that society puts pressure on individuals to achieve socially accepted goals (like wealth or success), but not everyone has the means to achieve these through legitimate ways, leading some to commit crimes. It posits that this discrepancy between goals and means can lead to deviant behavior.

Related terms

Anomie:

A state of normlessness where society fails to effectively regulate the expectations or behaviors of its members, often cited as a cause of deviant behavior.

Social Control:

Mechanisms, strategies, and institutions society employs to persuade or force individuals to conform to its norms.

Conformity:

The act of matching attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors to group norms or societal standards