Question

Merton's Strain Theory refers to the inherent strain people experience when trying to achieve socially agreed-upon goals such as a large home, a nice car, or a sizable bank account. Which of the following five modes of adaptation suggests achievement of culturally approved goals through culturally approved methods?
a). Ritualism
b). Retreatism
c). Conformity
d). Innovation
e). Rebellion

Answer 1

The correct answer is C. Conformity

Explanation:

In psychology, the term conformity refers to the way individuals modify their behaviors, actions, beliefs, and values to match those of other people and fit in society, usually by conforming to other people's ideas and perspectives rather than defending one's perspectives. Conformity is closely connected to Merton's Strain Theory that proposes social pressure makes people try to achieve certain "social goals" or pushes them to deviance because due to conformity individuals modify their goals and ways to achieve them to socially fit. Thus, the mode of adaptation in which individuals achieve culturally approved goals through culturally approve methods is conformity.