Which theory elaborates on the concept of the American Dream exerting pressure on individuals towards crime?

The concept of the American Dream and its associated pressures on individuals toward crime is best explained by Institutional Anomie Theory. This theory, developed by sociologist Richard Rosenfeld and others, posits that the unique cultural emphasis on success through material wealth in American society can lead individuals to experience strain. When people are unable to achieve these societal goals through legitimate means, they may resort to criminal behavior as an alternative.

Institutional Anomie Theory critiques how the pursuit of the American Dream prioritizes economic success over other social values, such as community or social cohesion. This distortion in social values can weaken societal institutions that traditionally regulate behavior, such as family and education. Consequently, an environment is created where crime becomes a more viable option for achieving the culturally exalted success. Thus, this theory effectively connects societal expectations and individual behavior in the context of crime, highlighting how systemic factors contribute to criminal activity.

The other options do not emphasize this relationship in the same manner. Social Disorganization Theory focuses more on the breakdown of social structures in communities and does not specifically address the American Dream. Labeling Theory centers on how individuals come to be labeled as deviant and the consequences of such labels, rather than the systemic influences that lead to crime. Critical Criminology critiques the