General Strain Theory: A Critical Evaluation

The theory represents a significant evolution in criminological thought, expanding upon traditional strain theories by introducing a broader, more flexible framework for understanding the relationship between strain and criminal behavior. But, while GST broadens the understanding of crime through its focus on emotions and diverse strains, its explanatory power is limited by its breadth, cultural relativity, and uneven empirical support. The critical evaluation that follows dissects GSTs strengths, limitations and contemporary relevance in diverse sociopolitical contexts.