Latent Dysfunction Definition

To begin, Merton would emphasize the manifest and latent functions and dysfunctions of technology in schools. The most obvious manifest function access. The internet gives children fast access to any information they could need. Another manifest function is communication. The internet allows teachers to easily communicate with parents through email and vice versa. As for the latent function, having computers, iPads, internet, etc. in schools creates IT jobs where there wouldn’t have been any before. A manifest dysfunction is that students will go on other websites and not pay as much attention in class if they have a technological device in front of them. Finally, a latent dysfunction is that technology in schools has created what is known
Merton states that deviance occurs when the values of society are out of sync with the means availability for achieving them. In America, these values essential makeup the American Dream which is to have a stable job, a nice house, a nice car, be able to support a family, etc. Since low-income children are virtually boxed out of learning the necessary skills to not only apply to college, but even get a decent job. However, that does not mean that these children did not grow up with the same values- wanting the same things. Thus, in order to obtain the nice clothes, cars, etc., they are more likely to engage in criminal activity such as drug dealing or theft to get to get money or the items themselves. Additionally, children in these lower income schools are socialized through the hidden curriculum to believe that they will not be successful through education. This is why we see this engagement in crime starting a young ages and not post-high school. A lot of them drop out of school because they can make more money if they aren’t spending 6 hours in school every week day. According to Merton’s types of adaptation, these children would be engaging in innovation. That is, they accept the cultural goals but reject the institutionalized means of obtaining