Introduction
In sociology, deviance refers to any behavior that goes against accepted social norms. This could be something minor, like breaking a traffic rule, or something serious, like committing murder. Deviance is basically any behavior or action that is not considered acceptable by the standards and expectations of society.
Definition of Deviance
Deviance is behavior that breaks important social rules and is disapproved of by many people. It includes acts that are considered unacceptable or forbidden in society. It could be a belief, action, or characteristic that goes against cultural norms and causes a negative reaction.
Deviants and Conformists
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A deviant is a person whose behavior does not follow the norms of society.
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A conformist is someone who follows and accepts the rules and expectations of society.
Types of Norms
There are two main types of norms:
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Mores: These are serious norms that have moral importance, like not committing crimes.
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Folkways: These are everyday norms that are less serious, like manners or habits.
Types of Deviance
Deviance can be divided into two categories:
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Formal Deviance: This includes serious violations of laws, such as murder, theft, or robbery.
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Informal Deviance: This includes minor acts that break unwritten social rules, such as being rude to a teacher or speaking loudly in public.
Theories Explaining Deviance
There are several theories that explain why people commit deviant acts:
1. Structural Strain (Anomie) Theory
Developed by sociologist Robert K. Merton, this theory suggests that deviance happens when there’s a gap between the goals that society promotes (like success or wealth) and the means available to achieve them.
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In a well-balanced society, people follow accepted ways to reach their goals.
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But when people can’t achieve these goals through legal or accepted ways, they may turn to deviant behavior.
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This gap between goals and available means creates pressure that can lead to deviance.
2. Labeling Theory
This theory focuses on how people become labeled as deviant.
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It argues that no act is naturally deviant. Instead, society decides what is deviant by labeling certain behaviors or people.
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These labels are often applied by people in positions of power, like the police, courts, teachers, or media.
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Once labeled, people may continue deviant behavior because society treats them differently.
3. Social Control Theory
Proposed by Travis Hirschi, this theory says that people follow rules because they are connected to others through social bonds.
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When these bonds are weak, people are more likely to break rules.
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Through socialization, people learn to conform to social expectations.
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Most people may feel the urge to break rules at some point, but strong attachment to family, friends, and values keeps them from doing so.
4. Differential-Association Theory
Developed by Edwin H. Sutherland, this theory explains deviance as a learned behavior.
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People learn deviant behavior by interacting with others, especially in environments where deviant acts are common.
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Through communication, they pick up attitudes, techniques, and motives for crime or rule-breaking.
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The more a person is involved with deviant peers, and the more frequent and intense the interaction, the more likely they are to become deviant themselves.
Conclusion
In summary, deviance is any act that goes against social norms. It may be harmless or serious depending on the situation. While some level of deviance is normal in every society, serious deviance can lead to social problems. Sociologists study deviance to understand why people break rules and how society responds to these behaviors.