According to Merton, anomic imbalance exists in the United States because most people expect to achieve the American Dream of financial success, but it is very difficult for most people to achieve that dream using the institutionalized means.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Merton's concept of anomie explains that when societal expectations (such as achieving financial success) are high, but the means to achieve those expectations are not equally available to all members of society, an anomic imbalance results. This is because individuals may feel pressure and strain to achieve these goals, but are unable to do so through legitimate means, leading to deviant behavior.

According to Merton, Anomic Imbalance Exists in the United States