According to the structural strain theory of deviance as articulated by Robert Merton,what is one of the principal reasons people turn to deviant behavior in the United States?
A) There are a lot of people with inborn antisocial tendencies.
B) American society is very lax in enforcing laws.
C) Deviant behavior is glamorized in the media and therefore becomes increasingly attractive to young people.
D) The goal of success is shared by a majority of people, but not everyone has equal means for achieving that goal.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to Merton's structural strain theory, deviant behavior arises when individuals are unable to achieve their goals through legitimate means. In the United States, success is a commonly shared goal, but not everyone has access to the same opportunities and resources for achieving that goal, leading some to turn to deviant behaviors to accomplish their objectives. Therefore, option D is the correct answer. Options A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not align with Merton's structural strain theory.

According to the Structural Strain Theory of Deviance as Articulated