The general strain theory (GST) is a sociological theory that explains how negative experiences and events in an individual's life can lead to criminal behavior. According to GST, individuals who experience strain or negative treatment from society or from their social environment are more likely to engage in criminal behavior as a way of coping with the strain or negative emotions that result from these experiences.
GST was developed by Robert Agnew in the early 1990s as an extension of Merton's strain theory, which focused on the relationship between social structure and deviance. Agnew argued that Merton's theory did not fully explain why some individuals turn to crime in response to strain, while others do not. GST posits that strain can come in the form of a variety of negative events or experiences, such as the loss of important goals or the experience of physical or emotional abuse.
GST suggests that there are three main types of strain that can lead to criminal behavior:
Structural strain, which refers to the social and economic conditions that make it difficult for individuals to achieve their goals. For example, individuals who live in disadvantaged neighborhoods or who face discrimination based on their race or social class may experience structural strain.
Personal strain, which refers to negative experiences or treatment that an individual experiences on a personal level, such as physical or emotional abuse or neglect.
Theoretical strain, which refers to the gap between an individual's expectations and the reality of their life. For example, individuals who have high aspirations but are unable to achieve them due to structural or personal constraints may experience theoretical strain.
GST suggests that individuals who experience strain are more likely to turn to crime as a way of coping with the negative emotions that result from these experiences. According to the theory, crime can serve as a means of relieving the negative emotions that result from strain and can provide individuals with a sense of control over their lives.
GST has been supported by a number of empirical studies, which have found that individuals who experience strain are more likely to engage in criminal behavior. However, the theory has also been criticized for its focus on individual-level factors and for not adequately considering the role of social and structural factors in shaping criminal behavior.
Overall, the general strain theory is a useful framework for understanding how negative experiences and events can lead to criminal behavior. It highlights the role of individual-level factors in shaping criminal behavior and suggests that efforts to reduce crime should focus on addressing the sources of strain that contribute to criminal behavior.
The general strain theory (GST) in criminology is a sociological theory that explains how individuals may turn to crime as a result of negative experiences or strain in their lives. GST was developed by criminologists Robert Agnew and Steven Messner in the 1990s as a way to expand upon and refine earlier strain theories that had been developed in the 1940s and 1950s.
According to GST, individuals experience strain or negative experiences in their lives that can lead to negative emotions such as anger, frustration, and resentment. These negative emotions can then motivate individuals to engage in criminal behavior as a way to cope with or alleviate the strain they are experiencing. GST suggests that there are three main sources of strain in an individual's life:
Structural strain: This refers to the way in which an individual's social and economic status may be a source of strain. For example, individuals who experience economic hardship or social disadvantage may be more likely to turn to crime as a way to make ends meet or to gain status and respect in their community.
Personal strain: This refers to the strain that individuals may experience as a result of their personal relationships or the way they are treated by others. For example, individuals who experience abuse or mistreatment at home or at work may be more likely to turn to crime as a way to cope with the negative emotions that this treatment generates.
Theoretical strain: This refers to the way in which an individual's goals and expectations may be a source of strain. For example, individuals who have high aspirations but are unable to achieve them due to structural or personal barriers may be more likely to turn to crime as a way to cope with the frustration and disappointment that this unfulfilled potential generates.
GST suggests that individuals who experience high levels of strain are more likely to engage in criminal behavior as a way to cope with or alleviate the strain they are experiencing. However, GST also acknowledges that not all individuals who experience strain will turn to crime, and that other factors such as an individual's social support network, access to legitimate means of achieving their goals, and their personal values and beliefs may influence their decision to engage in criminal behavior.
Overall, GST is an important theory in the field of criminology that helps to explain why individuals may turn to crime and how the negative experiences and strains in their lives may contribute to this decision. It also highlights the importance of addressing the social and economic inequalities and personal relationships that can create strain and contribute to criminal behavior.