ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the factors that contributed to the development of general strain theory (GST) and, in doing so, sheds additional light on the theory. It discusses the more proximal influences on the development of GST. The chapter draws on the leading crime theories, particularly control, strain, social learning, and opportunity theories. These theories have much to say about the origins of both negative and positive deviance. The chapter also describes the major revisions in GST and the factors that contributed to these revisions. It concludes by discussing future revisions and extensions in GST. Macro-level theories also have much to say about the origins and distribution of those factors influencing the nature/meaning of strains and the reaction to strains. At the same time, it should be noted that GST has much to offer macro-level theories. The chapter emphasizes the fundamental differences between the theory and control and social learning theories.
