Strain, Anger and Crime: A Sociopsychological Evaluation in the Context of the General Strain Theory

Abstract

Several theoretical frameworks approach the phenomenon of crime and its causes from different perspectives. In this sense, various social-psychological theories have been used to understand and explain crime and delinquency. One of these theories, the General Strain Theory, although developed relatively recently, is considered an important theory that uses different methodologies and shows that there is a significant relationship between strain, anger, and crime. This theory concentrates on negative emotions, particularly anger, and posits that they trigger criminal behavior, making it more comprehensive than classical strain theories. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the relationship between strain, anger, and crime from a social-psychological perspective within the context of the General Strain Theory. The study provides a comprehensive examination of criminal activities through the lens of this theory. In Türkiye, the explanatory potential of socio-psychological theories of crime, especially GST, to explain crime and delinquency has not been evaluated comprehensively and systematically. This situation indicates an important gap in the existing literature. Therefore, conducting this evaluation highlights the importance of this study in this regard. Within the framework of the study, the basic concepts are first introduced. Then, the basic arguments of the theory of crime, criminality, and crime control are presented. In addition, the socio-psychological conditions that contribute to the emergence and development of criminal behavior are discussed.