Which theory describes the varying responses people have toward societal goals and the means to achieve them?

Strain Theory is the correct choice because it specifically addresses how individuals respond to the pressures of societal goals and the means available to achieve them. Developed by sociologist Robert Merton, this theory posits that society sets culturally approved goals, such as financial success, while also providing limited legitimate means to achieve those goals. When individuals find themselves unable to attain these goals through conventional means—due to socioeconomic barriers or lack of access—they may experience strain and resort to alternative strategies.

These strategies can include innovation (finding new ways to achieve success outside of accepted norms), ritualism (giving up on achieving goals but continuing to adhere strictly to the means), retreatism (rejecting both the goals and the means), or rebellion (attempting to change societal goals and means altogether). The theory effectively illustrates the diversity in individual responses to social pressures and highlights the disjunction between societal aspirations and the societal opportunities available to various groups.