In His Structural Strain Theory, Robert Merton Argues That People

question 60

Essay

In his structural strain theory, Robert Merton argues that people who do not have the financial or cultural means to achieve the goals that society sets out for them, such as financial success, are more likely to engage in deviant behavior. Explain the different ways in which these people deal with their limited resources and express their deviant behavior, according to Merton.

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Definitions:

Cortex

The outer layer of the brain, involved in various high-level brain functions such as memory, attention, perception, cognition, awareness, thought, language, and consciousness.

Optic Nerve

A duo of nerves responsible for carrying visual data from the retina to the brain.

Fovea

A tiny depression in the retina where visual acuity is highest, due to the high concentration of cone cells.

Opponent-Process Theory

A psychological and neurological model that explains contrasting emotions and motivations, especially in response to addiction and emotional experiences.