Robert K. Merton and others who worked with his assumptions believed that criminal activity would decline if which of these happened?

Question

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Merton's strain theory suggests that criminal activity is often the result of individuals' inability to achieve legitimate goals through legitimate means. Thus, if economic conditions improve and opportunities for success become more accessible, individuals may be less likely to resort to criminal activity as a means of achieving their goals. Decreases in racism and sexism may also contribute to a reduction in crime, but they are not directly related to Merton's strain theory. Laws becoming more punitive may have a deterrent effect on crime, but they do not address the underlying societal issues that contribute to criminal activity.

Robert K Merton and Others Who Worked with His Assumptions Believed