Brown: Criminology, 8th Edition


Case Studies

7. Social Structure Theories of Crime

In the economic downturn, Ronald was laid off from his job. He has been out of work now for nearly seven months. With a wife and two daughters, Ronald is struggling to keep the lights on and make sure food is on the table. He has been able to get a few odd jobs over the past several months but they have dried up. The electric bill is due next week and Ronald is down to $60 in his wallet, with no hopes of getting any jobs anytime soon. After everything he has been through, he decides that this situation just is not fair. The only solution he can see is to get money the only way possible at this point – rob a bank. He gathers all of the necessary materials and robs a local bank and walks away with $1,350. It isn’t a fortune, but at least it will pay his bills and provide food for his family for the time being.

Questions

  1. Which theory can best explain the actions taken by Ronald?

    Correct Answer

    General strain theory, as proposed by Robert Agnew.

  2. Why did Ronald resort to criminal activity to obtain the money he needed?

    Correct Answer

    He chose to commit robbery because he felt that the strain he was experiencing was unfair and he was able to reduce the strain using illegal means.

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