Compare strain and subcultural theories of deviance and crime.

Strain theory and subcultural theories are both explanations for deviance and crime, but they approach the issue from different perspectives.

Strain theory, developed by Robert Merton, suggests that individuals turn to deviance and crime when they are unable to achieve socially accepted goals through legitimate means. This strain or pressure to achieve success can lead individuals to engage in criminal behavior as a way to attain their goals. In contrast, subcultural theories, such as the work of Albert Cohen and Richard Cloward and Lloyd Ohlin, focus on the influence of subcultures within society. These theories propose that individuals may turn to deviance and crime as a result of their association with delinquent subcultures that have their own set of values and norms.

While strain theory emphasizes the role of societal pressures and the inability to achieve success through legitimate means, subcultural theories highlight the influence of peer groups and subcultures on an individual's behavior. Both theories acknowledge the role of social factors in shaping deviant behavior, but they differ in their emphasis on the source of this influence.

In summary, strain theory focuses on the pressure to achieve societal goals, while subcultural theories emphasize the influence of peer groups and subcultures on an individual's behavior. Both theories provide valuable insights into the causes of deviance and crime, but they offer different perspectives on the underlying factors at play.