In this section, I will discuss the application of a social structure theory, focusing on strain theory. Social structure theory is a sociological perspective that argues that crime and other social issues are primarily caused by the characteristics of a society’s structure, such as class, poverty, neighborhood conditions, and individual factors. The theory I will apply here is Robert Merton’s strain theory.
Strain theory is particularly relevant to Set It Off. This theory explains that individuals may resort to criminal activity when there is a disconnect between culturally approved goals, such as financial stability or success, and the means available to achieve them. This disconnect creates stress, or “strain,” which can lead some people to adopt illegal methods to attain these goals.
One key component of strain theory is culturally approved goals, which emphasize success, wealth, and stability as societal ideals. While these goals are universally valued, they are often inaccessible to those in disadvantaged circumstances. In the movie, Stony dreams of a better life and works hard to save money to send her brother to college, hoping to escape their harsh environment. Her brother’s acceptance to UCLA represents the achievement of these cultural goals. However, after his wrongful death at the hands of the police, Stony’s dream shatters, pushing her toward crime as a means to regain financial stability. Another component of strain theory is the means and discrepancy, which refers to the gap between available resources and the means to achieve a goal. In the film, Frankie is wrongfully fired after a robbery takes place during her shift at the bank. Although she was in shock after witnessing a murder, she is unfairly blamed for the robbery and terminated. This loss of income creates a financial strain, leaving her with no other option but to turn to crime.
The application of strain theory to each woman’s decision to commit bank robbery is crucial to understanding their motivations. For example, Frankie is wrongfully fired after a bank robbery occurs while she is working. Although she was in shock after witnessing a murder, she is blamed for not following protocol, which results in her job loss. This situation exemplifies strain theory, as Frankie faces financial hardship with no job and no other resources, leading her to resort to crime.
Stony’s case also illustrates strain theory. She works hard to improve her life and that of her brother, but after his wrongful death at the hands of the police, she is emotionally devastated and feels that the only way to escape her environment is through crime. She turns to bank robbery as a way to rapidly change her circumstances.
T.T., the most vulnerable character, experiences significant strain as a single mother struggling to make ends meet. In one scene, T.T. is unable to afford a babysitter for her son, which leads to a tragic accident where he drinks cleaning solution and is taken by child protective services. In her desperation to regain custody, T.T. feels compelled to participate in criminal activity, including bank robbery, to prove that she can financially support her son and provide a stable home.
Finally, Cleo, who is rebellious and street-smart, adapts to her environment through minor criminal activity. Her decision to join the bank robbery is influenced by her loyalty to her friends and the promise of quick money. Strain theory is applied to Cleo’s character, as her previous minor crimes and her desire to help T.T. regain custody of her son demonstrate how strain can drive individuals to illegal behavior out of necessity and loyalty.