Final answer:
Strain Theory suggests that people engage in deviant behavior when they experience strain or pressure. Policy implications of Strain Theory include reducing inequality, providing opportunities, and addressing social and economic factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Robert Merton's Strain Theory, individuals tend to exhibit deviant behavior under pressure or strain. This strain arises when people fail to attain socially established goals through lawful means. The policy implications of Merton's theory suggest addressing social and economic factors that lead to strain and deviant conduct. To mitigate this behavior, policymakers should focus on reducing inequality, providing opportunities for education and employment, and promoting social and economic growth. Strain Theory, developed by Robert Merton, explains that individuals may engage in deviant behavior when they experience pressure or strain. This strain arises when people are unable to achieve culturally prescribed goals through legitimate means. To address this issue, policymakers should focus on reducing inequality, providing educational and employment opportunities, and addressing social and economic factors that contribute to strain and deviant behavior. By doing so, we can mitigate the negative effects of strain and promote social and economic growth.