Which theory includes the idea of frustration leading to criminal behavior?

Which theory includes the idea of frustration leading to criminal behavior?

• A. Conflict theory
• B. Social learning theory
• C. Strain theory
• D. Cultural theories

Answer: (C)

Strain theory addresses the concept that societal pressures, such as the inability to achieve culturally valued goals through accepted means, lead individuals to experience frustration. This frustration can drive individuals to engage in criminal behaviors as alternative methods to cope with or respond to these pressures. The theory suggests that when people feel they cannot attain success through legitimate avenues, they may resort to illegitimate means, including crime, as a way to achieve their desires or to alleviate the feelings of inadequacy and frustration. In contrast, conflict theory focuses on the power struggles and inequalities within society, emphasizing the role of economic disparity and social conflict in shaping crime. Social learning theory posits that individuals learn behaviors, including criminal ones, through interactions with others. Cultural theories, on the other hand, suggest that crime is influenced by cultural values and norms within certain groups. Each of these theories recognizes different aspects of criminal behavior but does not specifically emphasize the role of frustration in the same way that strain theory does.

Strain theory addresses the concept that societal pressures, such as the inability to achieve culturally valued goals through accepted means, lead individuals to experience frustration. This frustration can drive individuals to engage in criminal behaviors as alternative methods to cope with or respond to these pressures. The theory suggests that when people feel they cannot attain success through legitimate avenues, they may resort to illegitimate means, including crime, as a way to achieve their desires or to alleviate the feelings of inadequacy and frustration.

In contrast, conflict theory focuses on the power struggles and inequalities within society, emphasizing the role of economic disparity and social conflict in shaping crime. Social learning theory posits that individuals learn behaviors, including criminal ones, through interactions with others. Cultural theories, on the other hand, suggest that crime is influenced by cultural values and norms within certain groups. Each of these theories recognizes different aspects of criminal behavior but does not specifically emphasize the role of frustration in the same way that strain theory does.