Retreatism

Definition

Retreatism is a concept in sociology and criminology that refers to a response to strain or anomie where individuals reject both the cultural goals and the means of achieving them. Instead of striving for societal success or conforming to societal expectations, retreatists withdraw from social norms and may engage in behaviors such as substance abuse or social isolation. This concept highlights how some individuals may cope with failure or disillusionment by completely disengaging from society's values.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Retreatism is often seen as a form of deviance where individuals reject both success and the means to achieve it, leading to withdrawal from society.
2. Common examples of retreatist behaviors include drug addiction, alcoholism, and social withdrawal, which represent a retreat from societal expectations.
3. In the context of Strain Theory, retreatism is one of the five modes of individual adaptation to strain, alongside conformity, innovation, ritualism, and rebellion.
4. Retreatists may feel alienated and disconnected from mainstream society due to their inability to meet societal goals, contributing to their withdrawal.
5. The concept of retreatism highlights the impact of socio-economic factors on individual behavior, showing how systemic issues can drive individuals to disengage from societal norms.

Review Questions

• How does retreatism illustrate a response to strain in society?
  • Retreatism illustrates a response to strain by showing how individuals who feel they cannot achieve societal goals may choose to reject both those goals and the means to achieve them. Instead of working towards success in conventional ways, retreatists often withdraw from social expectations and may engage in activities like substance abuse. This behavior reflects a coping mechanism for dealing with feelings of failure and alienation, demonstrating the psychological impact of societal pressures.
• Analyze how retreatism differs from other modes of adaptation in Strain Theory.
  • Retreatism differs from other modes of adaptation in Strain Theory by emphasizing withdrawal rather than alternative strategies for achieving goals. While innovators seek new means to reach success and conformists adhere to traditional pathways despite obstacles, retreatists completely disengage from the pursuit of success. Ritualists may continue following the means without achieving the ends, but retreatists reject both aspects. This stark contrast highlights how some individuals opt out entirely rather than modifying their approach.
• Evaluate the broader implications of retreatism in understanding social issues such as substance abuse and mental health.
  • Evaluating the broader implications of retreatism reveals significant insights into social issues like substance abuse and mental health. It illustrates how systemic failures can lead individuals to adopt retreatist behaviors as a form of escape from reality. Understanding this dynamic can inform interventions aimed at addressing the root causes of disengagement and addiction, emphasizing the importance of providing support systems that promote reintegration into society. By recognizing the link between societal strain and personal withdrawal, we can better tailor solutions that address both individual and collective well-being.

Related terms

Anomie: A state of normlessness in society where the breakdown of social norms leads to feelings of disconnection and confusion among individuals.

Strain Theory: A sociological perspective that explains how societal pressure can lead individuals to commit deviant acts when they are unable to achieve culturally defined goals through legitimate means.

Substance Abuse: The harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs, which can be a coping mechanism for individuals who experience retreatism.