Status Frustration

Cards (16)

  • Who developed the theory about subcultures in relation to Merton's strain theory?
    Cohen
  • What is the key idea of subcultural theories according to Cohen?
    Deviants conform to different norms and values
  • How do working-class boys respond to low status in school according to Cohen?
    By forming subcultures or gangs
  • What is the relationship between mainstream values and subcultural values in Cohen's theory?
    Subcultural values are the reverse of mainstream values
  • What types of crimes does Cohen's theory seek to explain?
    Delinquency and non-utilitarian crimes
  • How do subcultures view socially deviant acts according to Cohen?
    As praiseworthy and a way to gain status
  • What criticism does Cohen face regarding the conscious inversion of norms by delinquents?
    It seems unlikely they consciously invert norms
  • What alternative explanation do post-modernist sociologists provide for delinquent behavior?
    Influence of boredom or seeking a "buzz"
  • What is a counterargument to the criticism of Cohen's theory regarding delinquent awareness?
    Delinquents may seek rewards and status
  • What specific demographic does Cohen's theory focus on?
    Working-class boys
  • What question does Cohen fail to address regarding working-class boys and status?
    Why do they struggle to attain status?
  • What do feminists argue regarding deviance in the context of Cohen's theory?
    Girls should also form deviant subcultures
  • How does Cohen's theory contribute to Merton's strain theory?
    It explains non-utilitarian crimes effectively
  • What are the main points of Cohen's theory on subcultures?
    • Deviants conform to different norms
    • Working-class boys form gangs due to low status
    • Subcultures invert mainstream values
    • Non-utilitarian crimes explained by status-seeking
  • What are the criticisms of Cohen's theory?
    • Lack of conscious inversion of norms
    • Insufficient links to social class and gender
    • Limited explanation for why only boys
  • How do Cohen and Merton's theories complement each other?
    • Together they explain a range of deviant behaviors
    • Merton focuses on utilitarian crimes
    • Cohen addresses non-utilitarian crimes