Relative deprivation and revolt: current and future directions

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Psychology
• Political Science

Background:

• Relative deprivation theory is a key framework for understanding social change.
• Existing research has illuminated various social, economic, and political phenomena.
• Contemporary research has limitations in fully explaining complex socio-political events.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize research applying relative deprivation theory.
• To identify areas illuminated and limitations within current research.
• To propose theoretical advancements and methodological approaches for future research.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies utilizing relative deprivation theory.
• Analysis of research highlighting the theory's applications and constraints.
• Development of theoretical elaborations and suggestions for methodological approaches.

Main Results:

• Relative deprivation theory effectively explains aspects of social change.
• Current research demonstrates both illuminations and limitations of the theory.
• Four theoretical elaborations are proposed to enhance understanding.

Conclusions:

• Further theoretical development and methodological innovation are needed.
• Understanding psychological processes is crucial for social change research.
• The study provides a roadmap for future research on rallies, riots, and revolutions.