Velmer S. Burton

A new test of classic strain theory

The central variable in classic strain theory is the individuals level of dissatisfaction or frustration with his or her monetary status. This variable, however, has been ignored in virtually all tests of the theory. Most often, strain is measured indirectly in terms of the disjunction between aspirations and expectations. This paper directly measures dissatisfaction with monetary status, and draws on classic strain theory to explore the determinants and effects of such dissatisfaction. Data from a sample of adults in Cincinnati indicate that dissatisfaction is highest among objectively deprived individuals and those who desire a lot of money, have low expectations for making a lot of money, and feel relatively deprived. Further, dissatisfaction has a positive effect on both income-generating crime and drug use. This effect is strongest among those who have criminal friends and beliefs conductive to crime. Unlike the findings in much previous research, these data provide qualified support for classic str...

THE EMPIRICAL STATUS OF STRAIN THEORY

Mertons macro-level theory of “social structure and anomie” has evolved into an individual-level “strain theory” that roots crime in the experience of blocked access to desired success goals. Empi...

Reducing the Legal Consequences of a Felony Conviction: A National Survey of State Statutes

Offenders convicted of a felony are restricted from exercising a number of civil rights. This paper surveys the statutes for each state in order to determine the available legal methods for restoring a convicted individuals civil rights. Specifically, the methods investigated in the statutes were pardon, expungement of conviction, and the automatic restoration of civil rights upon the completion of sentence. While the number of restoration procedures varied by state, the southern region of the nation had the fewest opportunities for offenders to restore their civil rights.

Reducing the legal consequences of a felony conviction: A national survey of state statutes ten years later

This study surveys all state and federal statutes in an effort to determine the current legal procedures available for restoring a convicted felons civil rights, and then compares the findings with those of Burton et al. (1988). The findings report virtually no changes in legal codes over the past ten years by states to increase pardons, expungement, or automatic restoration of rights opportunities for former offenders. Southern states continue to be most restrictive of civil and legal rights, given the few existing legal mechanisms to remove the effects of a felony conviction. Explanations for this apparent legislative inactivity of legal remedies are discussed.