Overview
This lecture covers Robert K. Merton’s functionalist theories of crime and deviance, focusing on his concept of strain theory and its adaptations.
Merton’s Critique of Functionalism
- Merton argued that not all aspects of society are functional; dysfunction and structural inequality exist.
- He criticized the idea of universal functionalism, highlighting that some social structures promote deviance.
Strain Theory and the American Dream
- Merton identified a strain between societal goals (the American Dream) and the means available to achieve them.
- The "strain to anomie" refers to the disconnect between societal goals and legitimate ways to achieve them, leading to deviant behavior.
Adaptations to Strain
- Merton outlined five adaptations to the strain caused by societal pressure:
- Conformity: Accepting societal goals and legitimate means (e.g., hard work, education).
- Innovation: Accepting societal goals but using illegitimate means (e.g., crime) to achieve them.
- Ritualism: Rejecting societal goals but continuing to follow legitimate means (e.g., routine work without ambition for wealth).
- Retreatism: Rejecting both societal goals and the means, often "dropping out" (e.g., substance abuse, vagrancy).
- Rebellion: Rejecting existing goals and means, creating new ones (e.g., activists, dissidents).
Evaluation of Strain Theory
- Strain theory recognizes structural inequality as a driver of crime.
- It influenced further studies on subcultures and delinquency (e.g., Albert Cohen).
- Criticized for not explaining non-utilitarian crimes (crimes of passion/violence) and for possibly being less relevant in today's fragmented society.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Functionalism — Sociological theory that sees society as a system whose parts work together for stability.
- Anomie — A state of normlessness where societal norms lose their influence.
- Strain Theory — Merton’s idea that societal goals without means to achieve them cause deviance.
- Adaptations to Strain — Five ways individuals respond to the gap between goals and means: conformity, innovation, ritualism, retreatism, rebellion.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the five adaptations to strain and examples for each.
- Think about how strain theory applies (or does not apply) to contemporary society.
- Prepare for questions on critiques and limitations of strain theory.