Strain, Cultural Deviance and Self-Control Theories

Sociological theories of crime look for elements in social environment and processes that create the motivation and provide the opportunity to commit crime. They look at the social environment in interaction with individuals, not the innate individual differences, for the cause of criminal behavior. The social environment of individuals is proven to be a major contributing factor in committing crimes. It is well known that poverty stricken areas have extremely high crimes rates. Poverty stricken areas have single family households, high drop out rates, and high unemployment rates, just to name a few aspects of the environment. Considering the amount of influence the social environment plays on crimes and criminal behavior, there are many theories as to why this is the case. Strain Theory, Cultural Deviance Theory, Self Control Theory, and Rational Choice Theory are the theories that will be viewed.

The Strain Theory holds that crime is a function between peoples' goals and the means they can legally use to obtain them. Society values material possessions, power, and prestige as ultimate goals. Therefore, when the lower-class is unable to obtain those legally, they feel angry and frustrated. Then they commit crimes like theft, violence, robbery, to achieve their goals. They do whatever is necessary to obtain the things they want most.