Anomie Theory Vs Social Bond Theory

Humans thrive to fulfill their desires and needs. Anomie theory and Social Bonding theory provide very different explanations of why people commit or do not commit crimes and how humans function. Robert Merton focused on Anomie theory, also known as Strain theory, which focused on how American culture defines monetary success as a predominant cultural goal to which all its citizens should aspire (Walsh 147). Anomie is a term meaning “lacking in rules” or “normlessness” used by Durkheim to describe a condition of normative deregulation in society. Anomie occurs when one is not in a comfortable position to meet their goals. Anomie may occur during stressful times in one’s life such as: financial crisis, death, family issues, or work. This theory explains high crime rights among the disadvantaged and how social norms create conflicts and crimes. Thus, explaining various means of adapting to strain. Travis Hirschi focused on Social Bonding theory, also known as Social Control theory, which is one the most popular when it comes down to social relationships (Walsh 192). Social Bond theory focus on a person’s bonds to others and prevent antisocial behavior (Walsh 192). This theory focuses on socialization practice and the four elements of social bond. Although these theories differ, they accommodate …show more content…
Commitment as understood in the social bonding theory is a rational component of conformity and refers to a lifestyle in which one has invested time and energy (Walsh 194). Individuals with a successful lawful career take on conformity and therefore are less likely to commit crime. Commitment also leads back to parents to gain approval of actions. Commitment and attachment coincide with each other because you must first have essential foundation in attachment to a prosocial lifestyle. If a person has a lawful career and family, they are less likely to commit a crime due to the fear of losing everything that they have committed