Social Strain Theory

Social Strain Theory suggests that society sets cultural goals and acceptable means to achieve them, like success through education and hard work. When individuals cannot reach these goals due to lack of resources or opportunities, they experience strain or frustration. This disconnection can lead to alternative behaviors, such as crime or deviance, as people seek different ways to achieve success. Essentially, when the traditional paths to success are blocked, some may resort to negative actions as a response to their strained circumstances.