ipl-logo

Merton's Social Strain Theory

245 Words1 Pages
In contrast, Merton’s theory is places emphasis on monetary success. He believes anomie is caused by the imbalance that results when cultural goals are overemphasized. Social strain theory is based upon two criteria: a person’s motivations or her adherence to cultural goals; a person’s belief in how to attain his goals. It was based on five criteria; conformity, innovation, ritualism, retreatism and rebellion. Conformity is the acceptance of cultural goals and the way that these goals are reached. Innovation involves the acceptance of goals but the rejection of the traditional means of of attaining that goal. Ritualism involves the rejection of cultural goals but the acceptance of the means for achieving the goals. Retreatism rejects both the
Open Document