Functionalist, strain & subculture theories

Durkheim & functionalist theory of crime -

• Inevitable and universal
• Durkheim sees crime as a normal part of all healthy societies

Durkheim - crime fulfills two important positive functions 

1. Boundary maintenance - 

Crime unites it's members against the wrongdoer and reinforcing their commitment to the value consensus. 

Sets an example, shows everyone the difference between right and wrong

2. Adaption and change - All change starts as deviance 

For change to occur, individuals with new ideas may challenge existing forms, at first this may seem deviant,

Davis - safety valve 

Cohen - warning light

Criticisms of Durkheim -

• Durkheim states society needs a certain amount of deviance but doesn't state just how much
• Just because crime is a function, it doesn't explain why there is crime in the first place

Merton's strain theory - Crime is a result of not being able to gain status in society

• Structural factor - society's unequal opportunity structure 
• Cultural factor - strong emphasis on success goal and weaker emphasis on using legitimate means to achieve

The America Dream - Merton

'money success' - Americans are expected to pursue this success, using legitimate means.

This ideology claims American…