Show Terms in this set (59)Functionalists point out that deviance, including criminal acts, is functional for society. Functions include affirming norms and promoting social unity and social change. According to strain theory, societies socialize their members into desiring cultural goals. Many people are unable to achieve these goals in socially acceptable ways—that is, by institutionalized means. Deviants, then, are people who either give up on the goals or use disapproved means to attain them. Merton identified five types of responses to cultural goals and institutionalized means: conformity, innovation, ritualism, retreatism, and rebellion. Because of illegitimate opportunity structures, people have different access to illegal means of achieving goals. Sets with similar termsRecommended textbook solutionsSocial Psychology10th EditionElliot Aronson, Robin M. Akert, Samuel R. Sommers, Timothy D. Wilson 525 solutions
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What are cultural goals and institutionalized means according to Merton's strain theory?Strain Theory of Deviance
Strain theory, developed by sociologist Robert Merton, posits that when people are prevented from achieving culturally approved goals through institutional means, they experience strain or frustration that can lead to deviance.
Which refers to the acceptance of the cultural goals and means of attaining them?Conformity: Is when the person or group accepts cultural goals and the means of attaining them.
What is Robert Merton's strain theory?According to Merton's strain theory, societal structures can pressure individuals into committing crimes. Classic Strain Theory predicts that deviance is likely to happen when there is a misalignment between the “cultural goals” of a society (such as monetary wealth) and the opportunities people have to obtain them.
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