What theory suggests that marginalized individuals develop alternative methods to achieve success when traditional goals are unattainable?

The theory that posits marginalized individuals create alternative pathways to success when conventional means are inaccessible is subcultural theory. This theory suggests that groups or subcultures within society may develop their own values, norms, and methods of achieving goals in response to their exclusion from mainstream cultural ideals.

For individuals facing systemic barriers due to factors such as poverty, discrimination, or lack of access to resources, the traditional means of success—such as obtaining a higher education or securing a stable job—may not be viable options. In response, these individuals often innovate or adapt their strategies to align with the realities of their circumstances, leading to the formation of alternative subcultures that embrace different definitions of success and achievement.

This approach emphasizes the importance of societal context in shaping behaviors and highlights how cultural adaptations arise from structural inequalities. Subcultural theory thus provides a framework for understanding how marginalized groups navigate and negotiate their social environments to find success in ways that might differ significantly from mainstream societal expectations.