An unemployed young adult wants a stereo, but he doesn't have the money or the means of earning the money needed to buy it. His desire for the stereo overwhelms him, and he steals one from a local store. This incident illustrates which theory of deviance?
A) conflict theory
B) labeling theory
C) anomie theory of deviance
D) cultural transmission theory

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The anomie theory of deviance, developed by Robert Merton, suggests that deviance occurs when there is a disjunction between societal goals and the means available to achieve them. In this case, the young adult's inability to achieve the goal of owning a stereo through legitimate means leads to deviant behavior (theft).

An Unemployed Young Adult Wants a Stereo, but He Doesn't