THE EMPIRICAL STATUS OF STRAIN THEORY

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Abstract
Merton's macro-level theory of “social structure and anomie” has evolved into an individual-level “strain theory” that roots crime in the experience of blocked access to desired success goals. Empirical tests of strain theory have yielded mixed results, with the level of support varying by the measure used to operationalize strain. An adequate assessment of strain theory's utility is complicated further by the methodological limitations of existing studies. We attempt to identify issues that might allow for a more systematic test of strain theory, and we encourage criminologists to broaden their research agenda to explore the potentially criminogeists effects of a wide range of strainful life circumstances.