ABSTRACT
General strain theory (GST) states that people engage in crime because they experience certain strains or stressors. These strains can lead to a range of negative emotions, such as anger. Crime may be a way to seek revenge against the source of strain or related targets; and crime may be a way to reduce the negative emotions that result from strains. Certain strains are conducive to crime because they are readily resolved through crime. For example, that strain involving a desperate need for money is readily resolved through crimes such as theft, drug-selling and prostitution. Strains may also increase crime for other reasons. Strains frequently reduce social control. Most strains involve negative treatment by others, including parents, teachers and employers. While the exposure to certain strains increases the likelihood of crime, most people who experience such strains do not cope through crime.
