Exploring Merton's Strain Theory: A Criminology Perspective

This essay provides an overview of Merton's Strain Theory, a prominent concept in criminology. It explains how societal structures and the pressure to achieve socially accepted goals can lead individuals to commit crimes when they lack the legitimate means to succeed. The essay explores the theory at both individual and structural levels, examining concepts like anomie and deviance. It also provides examples of how the theory is applied in real-world scenarios, such as the HOPE project and the Black Lives Matter movement. Additionally, the essay defines key terms related to the theory, including differential association theory, cultural deviance, and social control, and references relevant academic literature.