Define and Discuss the Five Modes of Adaptation According to Merton.What

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The Answer is Robert K. Merton, a prominent sociologist, proposed five modes of adaptation to explain how individuals respond to societal norms and values. These modes are conformity, innovation, ritualism, retreatism, and rebellion.

Conformity refers to individuals who accept societal goals and the means to achieve them. They follow the rules and norms of society in order to attain success and acceptance.

Innovation occurs when individuals accept societal goals but reject the traditional means of achieving them. Instead, they may turn to unconventional or illegal methods to reach their goals, such as engaging in criminal behavior.

Ritualism involves individuals who abandon the pursuit of societal goals but continue to adhere rigidly to the traditional means. They may become so focused on following the rules and norms that they lose sight of their original goals.

Retreatism refers to individuals who reject both societal goals and the traditional means of achieving them. They may withdraw from society and turn to substance abuse or other forms of escapism.

Rebellion occurs when individuals reject both the societal goals and the traditional means of achieving them, and instead seek to replace them with alternative goals and means. They may actively work to change the existing social structure and norms.

Merton believed that antisocial behavior, such as criminal activity, is often the result of a strain between societal goals and the means available to achieve them. When individuals are unable to attain success through legitimate means, they may turn to deviant or criminal behavior as a way to achieve their goals. This strain can lead to feelings of frustration, alienation, and a sense of injustice, ultimately contributing to antisocial behavior. Merton's theory highlights the importance of examining the relationship between societal goals, means of achieving them, and the resulting impact on individual behavior.

Define and Discuss the Five Modes of Adaptation According to Merton.What

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