In criminology, there are different theories to help us gather and analyze data on various aspects of crime and criminal behavior. These theories not only help us understand the subject matter but humankind as a whole. Robert Agnew’s General Strain Theory made several attempts to fine-tune the original strain theory. It identifies many different sources of strain besides the non-correlation between expectations and achievements. This caused a new perspective on an old theory made many decades ago. Agnew’s alterations addressed many of the disapprovals for his theory. It also focuses on the negative connections with others and how lawbreaking is the result of pressure which caused by anger and other emotions. The power control theory …show more content…
It views gender differences in a disruptive behavior as a function of power differentials in the family. The theory states that power arises from the positions spouses occupy in the workforce. In this theory, you have a paternalistic family and an egalitarian family. Both vary enormously from each other regarding the balance of power between parents.
Theory A
Robert Agnew’s general strain theory expanded from Merton’s Strain Theory. Agnew argued that Merton’s theory was too narrow and broadened the range and causes of strain. He gave three reasons which causes strain. The first one is, the failure to achieve positively valued goals such as, monetary success, popularity peers, etc. The difference between the desires/expectations and actual accomplishments are influenced by factors like social class or how smart they are. The difference between the expectations and the achievements is that the expectations are created by the individual as dream goals based on what he/she …show more content…
“Repeated or chronic strain may lead to a hostile attitude-a general dislike and suspicion of others and an associated tendency to respond in an aggressive manner” (Agnew, 2002). Agnew’s most significant contribution is to remind us that the most important factor is not strain but how one manages with it. None of us is happy when we are stressed; we may curse, throw things, or commit a crime. How we deal the situations depends on the amount of support that we get.
Theory B
The power control theory was created by John Hagan. This theory views disruptive behavior as a function of power differentials in the family. The theory states that power differentials start in the workplace and are exhibited at home, through the patriarchal or egalitarian family structure. These structures explain the reasons for male and female conduct. In patriarchal families, it is based off traditional roles. For example, the fathers will work outside of the home; they are considered the breadwinners. They make all the major decisions such as where they will live or what kind of house will they buy are mostly choices placed upon the husband’s shoulders. The mothers are expected to control the behavior of the children. Household chores