Two popular theoretical perspectives on race and crime that are examined in the world of criminology are strain theory and general strain theory. Strain theory which was developed in the 1930’s is a widely cited theory that deal with crime being related to individuals not living up to “culturally defined goals, purposes and interest” (Greene & Gabbidon, 2012) . General strain theory is a more modern theory that is an expansion of the strain theory. It includes the idea that the loss of something positive or the introduction of something negative in to one’s life can cause criminal behavior. Comparing and contrasting these two theories can give one a better insight to understanding to how each theory relates to racial differences in offending.
Strain theory was developed in 1938 by Robert K. Merton. Strain theory proposes that in every society there are culturally prescribed goal, such as the American Dream, and institutionally accepted means to achieve them such as receiving an education. When citizens aspire to societal goals but are unable to achieve them, a strain occurs that can lead them to commit crime and engage …show more content…
It expands on strain theory that economic strain is the main contributor to crime and includes strains caused by the removal of positive stimuli such as the loss of a spouse, death of a loved one the divorce of parents etc. Another view of the general strain theory is the introduction of negative stimuli like child abuse or criminal victimization (Greene & Gabbidon, 2012). Also, general strain theory devotes much attention to factors that may form how stain affects crime. Relevant factors including coping skills and resources such as problem-solving skills and financial, social support, social control, association with criminals, beliefs concerning crime and exposure to situations where the costs of crime are low and the benefits high (Agnew,
Strain theory was developed in 1938 by Robert K. Merton. Strain theory proposes that in every society there are culturally prescribed goal, such as the American Dream, and institutionally accepted means to achieve them such as receiving an education. When citizens aspire to societal goals but are unable to achieve them, a strain occurs that can lead them to commit crime and engage …show more content…
It expands on strain theory that economic strain is the main contributor to crime and includes strains caused by the removal of positive stimuli such as the loss of a spouse, death of a loved one the divorce of parents etc. Another view of the general strain theory is the introduction of negative stimuli like child abuse or criminal victimization (Greene & Gabbidon, 2012). Also, general strain theory devotes much attention to factors that may form how stain affects crime. Relevant factors including coping skills and resources such as problem-solving skills and financial, social support, social control, association with criminals, beliefs concerning crime and exposure to situations where the costs of crime are low and the benefits high (Agnew,