Robert Merton

Definition

Robert Merton was an influential American sociologist known for his contributions to the understanding of social structure and its relationship to deviance. His work laid the foundation for many theories in criminology, particularly through the development of Strain Theory, which explains how societal pressures can lead individuals to commit crimes. Merton’s insights into the disjunction between cultural goals and the means available to achieve them are pivotal in examining how society influences criminal behavior.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Merton introduced the concept of anomie to explain how a lack of clear societal norms can lead to deviant behavior.
2. His Strain Theory categorizes responses to strain into five modes: conformity, innovation, ritualism, retreatism, and rebellion.
3. Merton emphasized that not all deviance is criminal; some individuals may engage in non-conformist behavior without breaking laws.
4. He argued that lower socioeconomic status increases exposure to strain, thereby increasing the likelihood of criminal behavior among those individuals.
5. Merton's work has greatly influenced both sociological research and practical approaches in criminology, including policy development aimed at addressing social inequality.

Review Questions

• How does Robert Merton's Strain Theory explain the relationship between societal expectations and criminal behavior?
  • Merton's Strain Theory suggests that when individuals encounter barriers in achieving culturally approved goals due to lack of legitimate means, they may resort to deviance or crime as an alternative. This theory highlights that societal expectations can create pressure, leading individuals, particularly from disadvantaged backgrounds, to seek out illegitimate ways to succeed. Essentially, Merton argues that societal structure plays a crucial role in shaping individual responses to strain.
• Evaluate the significance of Merton's concept of anomie in understanding crime and deviance within contemporary society.
  • Merton's concept of anomie is significant as it sheds light on how social disorganization and the breakdown of norms can lead to increased rates of crime and deviance. In contemporary society, where rapid changes and inequalities exist, understanding anomie helps explain why certain groups may feel disconnected from societal values. This disconnection can result in a variety of deviant behaviors as individuals seek alternative pathways when traditional means appear unattainable or irrelevant.
• Critically analyze how Robert Merton’s theories could be applied to contemporary issues such as urban crime or drug use in economically disadvantaged communities.
  • Merton's theories can be applied to contemporary issues like urban crime and drug use by examining how structural inequalities create strain within economically disadvantaged communities. As legitimate opportunities for success are limited, individuals may turn to drug dealing or other criminal activities as a means of achieving financial stability. The resulting cycle of crime can be seen as a response to societal pressures, where systemic issues contribute significantly to criminal behavior. By analyzing these factors through Merton's framework, we can better understand the root causes of crime and develop targeted interventions aimed at reducing strain and providing viable alternatives for success.

Related terms

Strain Theory: A sociological theory proposed by Merton that suggests crime occurs when individuals experience a disconnect between culturally approved goals and the means to achieve them.

Anomie: A state of normlessness or breakdown of social norms that can occur when society fails to provide adequate means for achieving culturally valued goals.

Social Structure:

The organized pattern of social relationships and institutions that together compose society, influencing individual behaviors and opportunities.