Strain theory is the inability to achieve one's goals due to the loss of positive stimuli or the presentation of negative stimuli. Strain theory can play a vital role in the lives of some of my colleagues due to their inability to achieve their goals. In class we talk about how strain theory causes a large amount of crime through certain strains or stressors, which increase the likelihood of crime. Examples of stressors and strains not having a positive role model can influence the occurrence of crimes. Another strain issue that can play a role in criminality is the inability to achieve monetary success. Monetary success usually causes problems due to lack of income or lack of quality education which would push people to commit crimes. My take on the general strain theory is that there was a lot of pressure put on me to succeed in life, and this played a big role in my effort to succeed, we didn't have much income in the house, but my parents yes provide everything for me to succeed. People like Robert Merton believed that when social norms only accept goals, such as the "American Dream", which then put pressure on the individual to conform, force the individual to work within the society he produced, or instead become one. member. of a deviant subculture in an attempt to reach them