Merton's theory assumes the premise that lower-income people have a higher propensity to commit deviant acts compared to higher-income people.

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Merton's theory, also known as strain theory, argues that individuals are more likely to engage in deviant behavior when they lack the means to achieve cultural goals. This strain can result in anomie, or a sense of normlessness, which is more common in lower-income populations. Therefore, Merton's theory assumes that lower-income people have a higher propensity to commit deviant acts compared to higher-income people.

Merton's Theory Assumes the Premise That Lower-Income People Have a Higher