The Strain Theory and The Catch Me if You Can Film: The Presence and Connection

Introduction

The film Catch Me If You Can offers a compelling case study for analyzing strain theory, a criminological perspective that explains how individuals resort to deviant behavior when faced with structural limitations to achieving socially accepted goals. Strain theory, originally proposed by Émile Durkheim and later expanded by Robert Merton, argues that when people experience a disconnect between their aspirations and available legitimate means, they often seek alternative, sometimes illegal, methods to succeed.

In the late 20th century, strain theory gained renewed interest with the emergence of general strain theory and institutional anomie theory. This film presents numerous instances that align with these theories, particularly in how the protagonist, Frank Abagnale Jr., navigates the pressures of social status, economic hardship, and personal ambition. By applying strain theory to key moments in the film, we can better understand Frank’s motivations, the factors that push him into criminal activity, and the role of law enforcement in attempting to restore social order.

Durkheim’s Concept of Anomie and Merton’s Social Strain Theory

The origins of strain theory can be traced back to Durkheim’s concept of anomie, which describes a state of normlessness that occurs when traditional societal expectations and available means become misaligned. Major historical and social shifts can create environments in which individuals no longer know how to behave, leading to anxiety, uncertainty, and in some cases, criminal behavior.

Merton builds on this idea by emphasizing how the American Dream fosters an intense desire for success—particularly through financial wealth—but does not provide equal opportunities to achieve it through legitimate channels. In response, individuals may resort to five modes of adaptation:

1. Conformity – Accepting both societal goals and the prescribed means to achieve them.
2. Innovation – Accepting societal goals but using alternative (often illegal) methods to attain them.
3. Ritualism – Rejecting societal goals but rigidly adhering to socially approved means.
4. Retreatism – Rejecting both societal goals and means, often leading to withdrawal from society.
5. Rebellion – Rejecting both societal goals and means while advocating for new societal structures.

Frank Abagnale Jr.’s character falls squarely into the "innovation" category, as he adopts deception, fraud, and forgery as tools to achieve financial and social success. His story demonstrates how economic pressures and personal disillusionment with social structures can drive someone toward deviance.

Frank Abagnale Jr.: Anomie and Adaptation

At the core of Frank’s criminal evolution is his reaction to his family’s financial struggles. His father, Frank Abagnale Sr., is investigated by the IRS, leading to economic hardship and, ultimately, the breakdown of his parents’ marriage. This event marks a turning point for Frank Jr., who refuses to choose between his mother and father and instead embarks on a life of deception to escape his reality.

The connection to strain theory is evident in how Frank responds to structural barriers. Rather than accepting his limited financial means, he begins writing fraudulent checks, allowing him to fund a lifestyle beyond his legitimate capabilities. His ability to convincingly pose as a pilot, doctor, and lawyer demonstrates how far he is willing to go to achieve economic security and social status outside of legal boundaries.

His behavior directly aligns with Merton’s argument that when legitimate means of success are blocked, individuals find alternative routes, often through crime. However, Frank’s deviance is not driven purely by financial necessity—it is also fueled by a desire for validation, belonging, and control in a world where he feels powerless.

Anomie as a Psychological State

While strain theory is often viewed in broad sociological terms, it is equally important to consider its psychological implications. Durkheim’s concept of anomie suggests that people experiencing normlessness feel isolated, powerless, and adrift. This resonates deeply with Frank’s journey.

One of the most compelling examples of Frank slipping into anomie occurs during his first direct encounter with FBI Agent Carl Hanratty. When Hanratty tracks him to a hotel room, Frank is caught off guard but manages to outwit the agent by posing as a Secret Service officer. This moment is pivotal because it represents Frank’s detachment from reality—his ability to manipulate social norms so seamlessly that even law enforcement falls for his act.

His increasing reliance on deception indicates a disconnection from conventional moral standards. However, rather than feeling despair, Frank embraces his anomie, using it as a catalyst to reinvent himself continuously. This divergence from Durkheim’s theory suggests that while most individuals experiencing anomie might suffer emotional distress, Frank finds an unusual sense of freedom in it.

The Role of Carl Hanratty: Law Enforcement and the Restoration of Social Order

Carl Hanratty, the FBI agent relentlessly pursuing Frank, serves as the narrative counterbalance—the enforcer of social norms who works to restore order by capturing the deviant. His relationship with Frank evolves over the course of the film, moving beyond the typical cop-criminal dynamic.

One crucial moment comes when Frank calls Hanratty on Christmas Eve, a scene that symbolizes Frank’s need for connection despite his life of deception. Here, we see the psychological toll of his criminal lifestyle—despite his success, he remains isolated. Hanratty, recognizing this vulnerability, tells Frank, “You have no one else to call.” This exchange highlights that while Frank has gained financial and social success, he has lost the stability and relationships that legitimate means of success provide.

By the end of the film, Frank’s anomie reaches a resolution. He is caught, but rather than being sentenced to a conventional prison term, he is given a unique opportunity to work for the FBI, helping the agency combat financial fraud. This shift represents his reintegration into society, where his skills are now utilized within legal frameworks rather than against them.

Conclusion: Strain Theory in Catch Me If You Can

The film Catch Me If You Can provides a fascinating exploration of strain theory in action. Through the character of Frank Abagnale Jr., we see the pressures of economic strain, social status, and personal ambition collide, pushing him toward deviant behavior. His story illustrates Merton’s concept of "innovation", as he circumvents traditional means of success in favor of deception and fraud.

However, the film also presents a nuanced view of anomie, showing that while some individuals experience normlessness as despair, others, like Frank, transform it into an opportunity for reinvention. The resolution of his arc—working with the FBI—demonstrates that even those who deviate from societal norms can be reintegrated when given the right environment.

Ultimately, Catch Me If You Can serves as a case study in how structural limitations and social pressures shape human behavior. While Frank’s journey is extreme, the themes it explores—economic strain, identity, and the pursuit of success—are universally relatable. By applying strain theory to the film, we gain a deeper understanding of how societal expectations influence personal choices, sometimes leading individuals down unexpected and unlawful paths.