Ronald is a student who has not studied for a test, but he still wants to do well. He has decided to sit next to the best student in the class and copy her paper. According to Merton's description of responses to strain, which one best describes Ronald's reaction?
A) Resistance
B) Retreatism
C) Ritualism
D) Innovation
E) Rebellion

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ronald's decision to cheat by copying from the best student in the class, despite not studying, is an example of Innovation according to Merton's strain theory. Innovation involves using unaccepted means to achieve culturally approved goals, in this case, doing well on a test.

Ronald Is a Student Who Has Not Studied for a Test