Strain Theory Vs Functionalist Theory

Strain Theory vs Functionalist Theory
Although the strain theory and functionalist theory are different sociological theories, they do exhibit several similarities. Both theories are immersed in consumption. The strain theory demonstrates that the inclination for criminal activity is due to the immigrants desire to match the consumption level that coincides with their understanding of the American dream. While the functionalist theory focuses on the need of the immigrants fulfillment of their specific role in the societal structure that produces items that are consumed by society. The theories are also similar in the fact that they are both cyclical. The strain theory is cyclical because it demonstrates the immigrants desire to reach the American dream. Due to the lack of opportunities afforded to them, they are unable to attain that dream. As a result, they have an inclination to resort to criminal activity as a means of attempting to achieve the American dream. Due to the lack of opportunities the immigrants are often pigeon holed into low income neighborhoods …show more content…
According to the strain theory, immigration has a negative impact because it causes an influx of crime. However, when immigration is viewed through the lens of the functionalist theory, immigration has a positive impact on society because it is an important contributing factor in the supplying of food. Strain theory also tends to view immigration in a negative connotation and tends to ostracize the immigrants from society labeling them as criminals based on the assumption that they are unable to attain the societal standards by any other means other than through criminal activity. In contrast, the functionalist theory is inclusive of immigrants in the societal structure as their contributions are necessary in order to maintain the stability of the