2.3.2.8 - Merton

• Merton shows how both normal and deviant behaviour arise from the same goals and motivations
• Merton explains how working class crime rates may be higher
• Merton explains the reasons for crime and deviance as a result of social strain
• Merton's theory is too deterministic - not all working class individuals resort to crime
• Merton takes an individualistic approach and ignores the group deviance of delinquent subcultures
• Merton focuses on utilitarian crime and ignores crimes with no economic motive