Classic Strain Theory (Albert Cohen)

Front 1

Classic Strain Theory: Deprivation & Delinquent Subculture

Back 1

-Low-class adoloscents
-Delinquent subculture plays a role in delinquent behavior
-Inability to gain status
-Inability to gain acceptance
-Lower class youths cannot meet middle-class standards in school
-Status Deprivation = Status Frustration = Reaction Formation

Front 2

Reaction Formation

Back 2

-Response to Status Frustration
-Nature of delinquent activities
-Subculture gains status through gangs; violent activity, malicious & negativistic views.

Front 3

Middle-Class Standards

Back 3

1) Ambition
2) Responsibility
3) Deferred Gratification
4) Rationality
5) Controlled Aggression
6) Respect for Property

Front 4

Delinquent Subcultures

Back 4

1) Criminal = income-producing crimes
2) Conflict = physical violence
3) Retreatist = drugs and alcohol; "DOUBLE FAILURES"

Front 5

Focal Concerns (MILLER)

Back 5

1) Fatalism
2) Autonomy
3) Trouble
4) Excitement
5) Smartness
6) Toughness