CMY3701 Assignment 1
(COMPLETE ANSWERS)
Semester 1 2025 (506251) -
DUE 18 March 2025
100% GUARANTEED
, CMY3701 Assignment 1 (COMPLETE
ANSWERS) Semester 1 2025 (506251) - DUE
18 March 2025
SECTION A 1.1. Present a detailed discussion of
Merton’s (1938) anomie theory. (15)
Merton’s (1938) Anomie Theory, also known as Strain Theory, is a sociological
explanation of deviance that explores how societal structures contribute to crime
and other forms of deviant behavior. Rooted in the work of Émile Durkheim,
Merton expands on the concept of anomie—a state of normlessness or breakdown
of social norms—by arguing that societal pressures can lead individuals to engage
in deviant behavior.
1. Origins of Anomie Theory
Merton’s theory was influenced by Durkheim’s concept of anomie, which
described a disconnection between societal goals and the means available to
achieve them. While Durkheim linked anomie to rapid social change, Merton
focused on structural imbalances within society that create strain on individuals.
2. Core Assumptions of Anomie Theory
Merton’s theory is based on the idea that:
Every society has culturally approved goals (e.g., financial success, social
status).
There are institutionalized means (e.g., education, employment) to achieve
these goals.
When access to legitimate means is restricted, individuals experience strain,
leading to deviance.
3. Merton’s Modes of Individual Adaptation
Merton identifies five ways individuals respond to strain:
1. Conformity – Individuals accept societal goals and use legitimate means to
achieve them. This is the most common response.
2. Innovation – Individuals accept societal goals but use illegitimate or deviant
means to achieve them (e.g., fraud, theft).
(COMPLETE ANSWERS)
Semester 1 2025 (506251) -
DUE 18 March 2025
100% GUARANTEED
, CMY3701 Assignment 1 (COMPLETE
ANSWERS) Semester 1 2025 (506251) - DUE
18 March 2025
SECTION A 1.1. Present a detailed discussion of
Merton’s (1938) anomie theory. (15)
Merton’s (1938) Anomie Theory, also known as Strain Theory, is a sociological
explanation of deviance that explores how societal structures contribute to crime
and other forms of deviant behavior. Rooted in the work of Émile Durkheim,
Merton expands on the concept of anomie—a state of normlessness or breakdown
of social norms—by arguing that societal pressures can lead individuals to engage
in deviant behavior.
1. Origins of Anomie Theory
Merton’s theory was influenced by Durkheim’s concept of anomie, which
described a disconnection between societal goals and the means available to
achieve them. While Durkheim linked anomie to rapid social change, Merton
focused on structural imbalances within society that create strain on individuals.
2. Core Assumptions of Anomie Theory
Merton’s theory is based on the idea that:
Every society has culturally approved goals (e.g., financial success, social
status).
There are institutionalized means (e.g., education, employment) to achieve
these goals.
When access to legitimate means is restricted, individuals experience strain,
leading to deviance.
3. Merton’s Modes of Individual Adaptation
Merton identifies five ways individuals respond to strain:
1. Conformity – Individuals accept societal goals and use legitimate means to
achieve them. This is the most common response.
2. Innovation – Individuals accept societal goals but use illegitimate or deviant
means to achieve them (e.g., fraud, theft).
