ABSTRACT
This chapter begins with a brief synopsis of the underlying assumptions and core propositions of institutional-anomie theory (IAT) as it has evolved over the years, locating the theory within the anomie tradition in criminology more generally. It presents an analytic review of the quantitative research informed by IAT. IAT incorporates central elements of the anomie perspective in criminology as developed by Robert K. Merton. In his classic essay "Social Structure and Anomie," Merton establishes the foundation for a sociological explanation of crime and other forms of deviant behavior by providing what might be regarded as an analytic accounting scheme. Finally, the chapter discusses the theoretical implications of the empirical literature, addresses issues that have been raised in theoretical commentary, and identifies the challenges that must be confronted to enhance the theory's utility for future research on the macro-social sources of crime.
