Comparing Anomie And General Strain Theory

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Anomie and general strain theory both aim to explain the reasoning behind the inclination to commit crime. These theories argue that people commit crime due to pressure or strain. Pressure or strain can result from a multitude of sources. Not all individuals respond to strain with crime, but those who do often lack to ability to cope with strains in a legal way. Criminal coping becomes more likely for countless reasons including, when people are susceptible to negative states, undergo repeated chronic stressors, the costs of crime are low and when they are unable to achieve goals. According to anomie and general strain theory these stressors and others account for the increase in likelihood of criminal activity (Kubrin, Stucky, & Krohn, 2009). …show more content…

They encompass a broad range of strains that can cause people to commit crime. Strain can occur in the form of negative emotions, lacking a job or income, or perceived mistreatment, as well as many other forms. Therefore I believe that general strain theory and anomie are promising theories.
There are issues with the theories though that causes them to be slightly unreliable. Strains can be measured in numerous ways. Every study of general strain theory can look at completely different strains and measure them in different ways. Looking at different strains while implementing different measurement techniques makes determining the accuracy and validity of strain theory to become difficult. Theories need to be empirically tested and replicated to determine their value.
Merton’s (1968) general strain theory tends to focus on the idea that only crimes committed for economic gain result from strain. This creates a narrow application for strain theory and eliminates its application to other crimes. Other theorists though have expanded general strain theory to include various crimes. If general strain theory was truly intended to only apply to crime committed for economic gain this theory would be much to narrow and might not have the staying power it has

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