The theory of differential opportunities combines learning, subculture, anomie and social disorganization theories and expands them to include the recognition that for criminal behaviour there must also be access to illegitimate means. Main proponent Richard A. Cloward und Lloyd E. Ohlin Theorie Cloward & Ohlin’s theory of differential opportunities represents
Merton
Institutional Anomie Theory (IAT) (Messner & Rosenfeld)
According to Institutional Anomie Theory (IAT), crime is an indirect consequence of the dominance of the economy over other sectors of society. If a society is primarily shaped by economic interests, economic logic permeates other social institutions and areas (such as education). This results in utilitarian behaviour on the part
General Strain Theory (Agnew)
According to Robert Agnew’ s General Strain Theory, strain is based on three different factors: failure to achieve a goal, the existence of harmful impulses, and the removal of positive impulses. Stress produces negative emotions such as anger or depression that promote delinquent behaviour without adequate coping skills. Main proponent
