Strain theory was developed in 1938 by Robert K. Merton. Strain theory proposes that in every society there are culturally prescribed goal, such as the American Dream, and institutionally accepted means to achieve them such as receiving an education. When citizens aspire to societal goals but are unable to achieve them, a strain occurs that can lead them to commit crime and engage …show more content…
It expands on strain theory that economic strain is the main contributor to crime and includes strains caused by the removal of positive stimuli such as the loss of a spouse, death of a loved one the divorce of parents etc. Another view of the general strain theory is the introduction of negative stimuli like child abuse or criminal victimization (Greene & Gabbidon, 2012). Also, general strain theory devotes much attention to factors that may form how stain affects crime. Relevant factors including coping skills and resources such as problem-solving skills and financial, social support, social control, association with criminals, beliefs concerning crime and exposure to situations where the costs of crime are low and the benefits high (Agnew,