Merton's Strain Theory

How does mertons’ Strain Theory define the presence of deviance? How relevant are the positive theorists in explaining the presence of deviance in our American society? How do these theories work in society?

Robert Merton is an American sociologist who helped to develop the structural strain theory. Although there are different ways to approach this theory, Merton used a functionalist’s perspective. The structural strain theory on deviance takes a look at how pressures in society affect individuals to either conform to the norms or to deviate off track.

Merton’s strain theory is based off the idea that deviant behavior is caused by social strain. What this means is that the American society has set extremely high standards, without providing means of achieving those goals. Everyone starts out with a “blank slate” and is given the “same” opportunities. Although, life is never fair. A person who is born into a family that is very wealthy is going to have a better chance of success in what ever it is that they find appealing than a person who is born into a poor family. Therefore, a person who is born into a poorer family is more likely to become susceptible to deviant behavior, in the means of trying to gain a higher rank in our social class. The lower classes are unable to keep up with the high demands from our society. Our society has an idealistic view on how people should conduct with each other and work together as a whole. Although in reality, our society is nothing like people picture it to be. The reason behind this is because of our societies standards. This standard of a “picture perfect” life has indirectly driven people to behave in the ways expected of their social class.

It is believed that social classes do affect the interactions between common people, and the drive to do these actions is based off the principal of the American dream. Though, it would be wrong to say that that is exactly why. Merton’s