According to Robert K. Merton, which of the following factors explains why some poor people resort to crime whereas others do not?
A) some have a tendency to gravitate toward criminal subcultures
B) the body types of the individuals involved
C) the degree to which criminal behavior is functional for the larger society
D) variations in the efficiency of law enforcement agencies

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Merton's strain theory suggests that individuals may turn to crime when they experience a disjunction between societal goals and the means available to achieve them. Some individuals may gravitate toward criminal subcultures as an adaptation to this strain.