Linking exposure to strain with anger: An investigation of deviant adaptations

Recent developments in strain theory have moved toward a broad conceptualization of strain. In a series of papers, has developed General Strain Theory (GST), which attempts to address past criticisms of more traditional theories of strain. There have, however, been few empirical tests of GST, and the critical role of anger has not been widely examined. In the present analysis, a partial empirical test of GST is presented that examines the mediating effects of anger as well as the possible instrumental, escapist, and violent adaptations to strain. The results reveal partial support for GST, but only for models predicting intentions to fight. In addition, the mediating effects of anger were not observed in models predicting intentions to drive drunk, shoplift, and fight. Implications of the results and future directions for GST are discussed.