Susan dreamed of opening her own restaurant but couldn't afford the startup costs. She decided to steal from her grandmother's estate in order to finance her business. Though she felt some hesitation, Susan decided that the possibility of her success justified her actions. According to strain theory, Susan's behavior results from which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Strain theory suggests that individuals may engage in deviant behavior when they are unable to achieve societal goals through legitimate means. In Susan's case, her decision to steal in order to finance her dream of opening a restaurant, despite societal norms against theft, is an example of innovation. This is because she adopts an unconventional means to achieve a socially approved goal (owning a business).

Susan Dreamed of Opening Her Own Restaurant but Couldn't Afford