Albert Cohen used the concept of "delinquent subculture" to refer to groups such as gangs that reject middle-class norms and celebrate defiance. What is the primary difference between his of deviance and that of Robert K. Merton?
A) Deviance is found in inner-city subcultures.
B) Deviance is a collective response.
C) Deviance is inevitably the result of socioeconomic differences.
D) Deviance is frequently visible along racial lines.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The primary difference between Cohen's concept of "delinquent subculture" and Merton's concept of deviance is that Cohen emphasizes that deviance can be a collective response, whereas Merton focuses on individual responses to societal pressures and norms. Cohen argues that members of delinquent subcultures reject middle-class values and norms and create their own set of cultural values based on defiance and rebellion. In contrast, Merton's strain theory suggests that deviance is the result of individuals' inability to achieve societally-valued goals, leading them to adopt alternative means of achieving success or status.

Albert Cohen Used the Concept of "Delinquent Subculture" to Refer