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Anomie Theory Theories

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THEORETICAL EXPLANATIONS FOR GANG FORMATION
Merton, as cited in (Schneider & Tilly, 2004) suggests structural theories significantly emphasize the role of social and economic structures as the causes of delinquent behavior and tend to treat criminal behavior as the result of the undesirable and dysfunctional structures (P. 3) However, to some it is rather unbelievable people who join gangs belong to similar neighborhoods and socioeconomic backgrounds. This paper draws on existing sociological research in identifying a number of theories; this paper will discuss both social structure and social process theories used in explaining how gangs form.
According to Hagan, (2008.) Merton’s revision of Durkheim’s concept of the anomie theory speaks about the conditions that occur when differences exist between the things you want to acquire and the available means to get it, Strain being the discrepancy between goals and means (p. 148-149.) Strain theory also explains delinquency as a …show more content…

According to Cohen, (1955.) The boys who became part of the gangs aspire toward standards that were opposite to those of the middle class “lower class reaction to middle class values”, Cohen explains the delinquent subculture produced by gang involvement as “crimes committed by gangs not done to achieve monetary success, but rather status within the gang” (Cohen, 1955. P. 202).
Cloward and Ohlin’s differential opportunity theory suggest an emphasized role of social and economic structures as causes of delinquency, they asserted Anomie comes from within their own environment, which is usually lower class areas (slums) where a number of illegal opportunities exist, and their change in behavior depends on the resources available illegitimate or not (Hagan, 2008.

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