Which of the following best describes a retreatist in sociological terms?

A retreatist, in sociological terms, is best described as a person who withdraws from both means and goals within society. This concept originates from Robert Merton's Strain Theory, which categorizes individuals' responses to societal norms and values based on the relationship between achieved goals and accepted means to those goals.

Retreatists reject both the prescribed social goals, such as wealth or success, and the legitimate means to achieve them, such as education or hard work. This detachment often leads them to live outside of conventional societal structures, possibly engaging in forms of escapism, such as substance abuse or alternative lifestyles that do not aim for traditional social success.

Understanding retreatism highlights the diverse responses individuals may have in relation to societal pressures and expectations, showcasing a different type of social adaptation compared to conformity, innovation, or rebellion that involve some level of engagement with societal norms.