Functionalist, Strain and Subcultural Theories in Sociology
Functionalist theory views crime as an integral part of society, serving specific functions. Durkheim's theory posits that crime is normal and even necessary for social cohesion and progress.
Key aspects of functionalist and strain theories:
- Crime serves as boundary maintenance, reinforcing societal norms
- Deviance can lead to adaptation and social change
- Merton's strain theory explains crime as a result of societal pressure
- Subcultural theories explore how alternative value systems emerge
Highlight: Functionalism demonstrates how crime and deviance are crucial to society's functioning, often reinforcing solidarity after major crimes.
Example: The legalization of gay marriage is an instance of how deviance can lead to social progress and change in norms.
Vocabulary: Safety valve in sociology refers to mechanisms that release social tensions without threatening core societal structures.
Evaluation of functionalist perspectives:
- Provides insights into crime's role in social cohesion
- Ignores negative impacts on individuals
- Difficulty in determining the "right" amount of crime
Strain theory, developed by Merton, explains deviance as a result of pressure between societal goals and available means. It outlines five adaptations to strain:
- Conformity
- Innovation
- Ritualism
- Retreatism
- Rebellion
Definition: Non-utilitarian crime refers to criminal acts not motivated by material gain, often explained by subcultural theories.
Subcultural strain theories:
- Cohen's theory focuses on working-class boys in middle-class school systems
- Explains formation of delinquent subcultures as alternative status hierarchies
- Cloward and Ohlin's theory examines different types of subcultures based on illegitimate opportunities
Example: A conflict subculture in sociology might emerge in neighborhoods with high population turnover, where violence and territorial disputes are common.