Crime and Strain Theory

The video discusses how societies maintain cohesion through shared values, which can have both positive and negative effects. Merton's strain theory is introduced, explaining that societal values push individuals to seek wealth and success, but not everyone has equal opportunities to achieve these goals legitimately. This leads to a state of anomie, where some may resort to crime or reject societal values. The origins of crime and deviance are linked to the structure and values of modern capitalist societies, rather than individual characteristics.

What is the dual nature of shared values in societies?

• They only affect the wealthy.

• They are always positive.

• They can have both positive and negative effects.

• They are irrelevant to societal functioning.

According to Merton, what is a key issue for people in lower classes?

• They have too many opportunities.

• They lack legitimate means to achieve societal goals.

• They are not affected by societal values.

• They have more wealth than others.

What does the term 'anomie' refer to in Merton's theory?

• A gap between societal goals and legitimate means to achieve them.

• A form of government.

• A state of complete happiness.

• A type of crime.

What might individuals resort to when experiencing anomie?

• Higher education.

• Increased productivity.

• Illegitimate means, crime, or deviance.

• Complete satisfaction.

How should we understand the origins of crime and deviance according to the theory?

• As a natural disaster.

• As a random occurrence.

• As a result of societal structures and values.

• As a result of individual characteristics only.