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Collective Adaptation to Structural Strain: Commiserating and Problem-Solving in groups

Abstract Numerous studies have explored group cohesion and social action under stressful circumstances. Several theories such as social identity theory, social categorization theory and grievance theories of social action have specifically addressed this issue. However, Robert Merton's “typology of modes of adaptations” to structural strain has not been effectively applied to studies of group cohesion and social action under stressful circumstances. Most of the applications of this typology have remained within the range of individual decision making. Using a field experiment, this paper explores the applicability of Merton's typology to collective responses to structural strain. The experiment breached the normal expectations of student performance in a college classroom. The analysis of participants' responses revealed not only individual adjustments anticipated in Merton’s model but also a rich repertoire of avoidance and evasion that took place in a collective context; namely: “attitude adjustment (commiseration) and “concerted action” (problem solving). These phenomena are introduced as “intervening variables” capable of mediating individual adaptations to structural strain. The paper discusses implications of the findings and suggests possible paths of future research.