In chapter six, Robert K Merton mentions the adaptation model. What mode of adaption, does Merton, state is used by those who withdraw from society’s social and cultural expectations?
According to Merton the adaptation mode is retreatism, which involves a “rejection of both goals and means” (Williams and McShane, 2014:82). He states that these persons, are those who opt not to innovate, give up on their ability to reach, important goals in life, by withdrawing themselves from life’s demands. The most common example of this pattern is seen in hobos, alcoholics, and drug addicts.
According to Merton the adaptation mode is retreatism, which involves a “rejection of both goals and means” (Williams and McShane, 2014:82). He states that these persons, are those who opt not to innovate, give up on their ability to reach, important goals in life, by withdrawing themselves from life’s demands. The most common example of this pattern is seen in hobos, alcoholics, and drug addicts.