Final answer:
Cloward and Ohlin, in their theory of differential opportunity, noted that the American preoccupation with economic success, combined with the existing socioeconomic stratification, creates a sense of strain in individuals, thus the correct option is D.
Explanation:
Cloward and Ohlin, in their theory of differential opportunity, noted that the American preoccupation with economic success, combined with the existing socioeconomic stratification, creates a sense of strain in individuals. This strain results from the pressure to conform to the societal expectations of success and the limited opportunities available for achieving it. This strain can manifest in various forms, such as deviant behavior, crime, and rebellion, as individuals resort to illegitimate means to attain success.
To further explain this theory, let us consider the concept of relative deprivation. According to Cloward and Ohlin, individuals experience relative deprivation when they feel that they do not have access to the same opportunities and resources as others in their society. This feeling of deprivation can result in a sense of strain, which may lead individuals to engage in deviant behavior as a means to achieve success. For example, individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds may turn to crime as a way to gain wealth and status, which they perceive as necessary for success in American society.
Moreover, Cloward and Ohlin also highlight the role of differential opportunity in this process. They argue that individuals from different socioeconomic backgrounds have varying levels of access to legitimate opportunities for success. This unequal distribution of opportunities creates a sense of strain for those who are unable to access them, leading them to seek alternative, often deviant, means to achieve success. This further perpetuates the existing socioeconomic stratification and reinforces the cycle of strain and deviance.
In conclusion, Cloward and Ohlin's theory emphasizes the impact of the American focus on economic success and the unequal distribution of opportunities on individual behavior. Their theory highlights the role of societal factors in shaping individual actions and provides a framework for understanding the relationship between socioeconomic stratification and deviant behavior.