What does Strain Theory suggest when individuals cannot achieve cultural goals?

Strain Theory posits that society sets certain cultural goals that individuals are expected to achieve, such as financial success or social status. When people are unable to attain these goals through legitimate means—often due to structural barriers like poverty, lack of education, or discrimination—they may experience a sense of frustration or strain. This strain can lead to alternative behaviors, including deviance, as individuals seek to cope with their unmet aspirations.

In essence, the theory highlights how societal pressures can influence individual behavior. When conventional paths to success are blocked, some individuals may turn to unconventional or deviant methods as a way to achieve their desires or alleviate their frustration. This perspective helps to explain the dynamics of crime and deviance within various social contexts. Thus, the assertion that individuals may resort to deviance as a response to their frustrations aligns with the core principles of Strain Theory.