Reading Assignment for Section 6.2
Read the following subsection from our online textbook: Section 6.2: Anomie and Strain Theories.
What You Will Learn
In this section, you will explore how societal norms and pressures shape individual behavior, sometimes leading to deviance and criminality. You will examine Durkheim’s concept of anomie and Merton’s theory of social strain, analyzing how economic disparities and social inequalities contribute to crime. Finally, you will evaluate the empirical support for these theories, their relevance to modern societal challenges, and their limitations in explaining crime across different cultural and social contexts.
Student Learning Outcomes for Section 6.2
- SLO 1: Identify how societal norms and pressures influence individual behavior, leading to deviance and criminality.
- SLO 2: Distinguish between Durkheim’s concept of anomie and Merton’s theory of social strain and their implications for understanding crime.
- SLO 3: Analyze the societal conditions that contribute to anomie and the development of strain, particularly in relation to economic disparities and the digital divide.
- SLO 4: Evaluate the empirical support for Anomie and Strain Theories and their application to contemporary societal issues.
- SLO 5: Critique the limitations of Anomie and Strain Theories in explaining diverse forms of criminal behavior across different cultural and social contexts.
Modification History File Created: 02/15/2024 Last Modified: 02/19/2025
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