Which of the following theories highlights the conflict between lower-class norms and dominant culture?

Cultural deviance theory is the correct choice because it focuses specifically on the ways in which the norms and values of lower-class subcultures can conflict with the mainstream or dominant culture. This theory posits that when individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds are faced with societal pressure and rejection of their values, they may develop their own cultural norms that diverge from those of the dominant society.

In cultural deviance theory, behaviors that might be viewed as deviant in the context of dominant culture— such as theft or gang membership—can actually be seen as acceptable or even desirable within certain subcultural groups. This discrepancy explains how juvenile delinquency can be understood as a response to the pressures exerted by economic disadvantage and the struggle for identity within differing cultural frameworks.

In contrast, social learning theory emphasizes behavior learned through interactions and observations rather than the conflicts between cultural norms. Social reaction theory focuses on societal responses to deviance, particularly how labels and stigmas can affect individuals. Strain theory discusses how societal structures can create pressure that leads to delinquency, often through economic means, but does not emphasize the cultural conflict aspect in the same way that cultural deviance theory does.