Question

Ms. Bailey places much of the blame for the social problems (drugs, theft, prostitution, etc.) at the Robert Taylor Homes on a larger society that has denied legitimate opportunities to the poor. Her arguments are quite consistent with Merton's strain theory.

Answer 1

Ms. Bailey's blame for social problems at the Robert Taylor Homes is consistent with Merton's strain theory, which explains how lack of opportunities can lead to deviant behavior.

Step-by-step explanation:

Ms. Bailey's belief that the social problems at the Robert Taylor Homes are partly caused by a larger society that denies legitimate opportunities to the poor aligns with Robert Merton's strain theory. Merton's theory states that individuals may turn to deviant behavior when they are unable to achieve socially accepted goals through legitimate means. In this case, the lack of opportunities and resources in the larger society may lead some residents of the Robert Taylor Homes to engage in activities like drug use, theft, and prostitution.