Thio, Alex: Relative Deprivation and Deviance

Two Types of Deprivation

In “A critical look at Merton's anomie theory,” Thio argues that there are two different types of deprivation: (1) absolute deprivation and (2) relative deprivation. Absolute deprivation, which is considered to be objective deprivation, occurs when there is a real deficiency in a particular resource or necessity, such as income (Stiles et al., 2000). For example, if an individual has an income level below the poverty line, he or she is considered to be poor or experiencing absolute deprivation. Thus, Thio argues that although individuals that experience absolute deprivation do set high goals, they realize that these goals are too unrealistic and unlikely to be achieved given their current situation, such as living in poverty.

Relative deprivation, on the other hand, is considered by Thio to be more subjective. Relative deprivation is a feeling of being unable to achieve relatively high aspirations compared to other people or being jealous of the material objects or income level another person possesses. For instance, although individuals may have an annual salary of $100,000, they may feel as if they are poor compared to their colleagues, friends, neighbors, or family members that have an annual salary of more than $100,000. Therefore, relative deprivation can be seen as a social comparison. People in society are always comparing themselves to what others have and “try to keep up with the Joneses.” This social comparison can lead individuals to believe that they need more money and thus push them to participate in deviant acts to acquire more money. Hence, the more people experience relative deprivation, the more likely they are to commit deviant acts, according to Thio.

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