The Study of Student's Deviant Behavior: Evaluation of Explanatory Power of Classic Strain and Control Theories

The aim of this study is to evaluate the explanatory power of classic strain and control theories, why the occurrence of deviance behaviors among students at University of Mazandaran. The research method was survey. A total of 380 students were studying at University of Mazandaran in the academic year 94-1393, were selected with stratified sampling method and responded to a questionnaire. The results indicate that there are significant differences in rates of deviant behaviors between boys and girls, so that commit deviant behaviors among boys are more than girls. The findings indicate that the exhaustive model of the variables of classic/strain theories and the variables of deterrent, social bond and general theory of crime theories can well explain student deviant behaviors. On the one hand, exposure to strain may affect the individual's commitment to common practices, his beliefs to law, his assessment of the dangers of punishments and his self-control. On the other hand, fear of punishment, investment in common practices, the belief in fairness of laws and high self-control can lead to situations where a person does not comply with the usual adaptations of strain and choose coping strategies.