On most occasions, the society delegates high expectations upon individuals and tasks them to achieve these goals in spite of their limited capabilities. This phenomenon is explained by Robert K. Merton’s strain theory. Merton asserts that most people will engage in crimes and other socially deviant activities to be able to achieve certain goals (Wright, 2008). For example, Merton’s Strain Theory can be used to explain why a student will engage in cheating in exams.
Academic success is an example of a socially acceptable goal. The society is of the opinion that education is the key to a good life i.e. go to school, achieve good grades and pursue any successful career (Wright, 2008). As such, the society strongly believes that academic success should only be arrived at through studying hard and criticizes educational malpractices. Therefore, a student has to conform to the strain, that is academic success, and achieve good grades in spite of the means used.
In this case, the student exemplifies individual strain theory i.e. the student is subjected to certain frictions and pains in order to achieve academic success. Realizing the goals of the society has become more essential to the student to the extent that he/she is willing to cheat to achieve them (Wright, 2008).
In conclusion, the pursuit of the American dream can also be explained using the strain theory. While most people will want to own a house, several cars, and put their children through good expensive through legal and other socially-acceptable means, others may find this difficult. Most people will opt to achieve the American dream through criminal activities such as fraud, money laundering, and corruption as it is much easier compared to working a 9-5 job. The society celebrates people who live the American dream. Therefore, a significant percentage of the population will do anything to achieve the dream.
References
Wright, B. (2008). Every day Sociology Blog: Merton's Strain Theory, Crime, and My Pants. Everydaysociologyblog.com. Retrieved 23 January 2017, from http://www.everydaysociologyblog.com/2008/10/mertons-strain.html
