WJC Level 3 Criminology: Forms of Deviance

Introduction

• Focus on different forms of deviance as part of criminological theories.
• Understanding that while some deviant acts are criminal, not all are illegal.
• Deviance can also be positive, leading to innovation or societal change.

Definitions

• Deviance: Acting against the expected norms and values of society.

Forms of Deviance

1. Admired Deviance

• Definition: Behaviors against societal norms but seen as heroic or admirable.
• Examples:
  • Firefighters risking their lives during tragedies (e.g., Twin Towers, Grenfell Tower).
  • Rosa Parks' refusal to give up her seat, challenging racial segregation.

2. Odd Deviance

• Definition: Eccentric behaviors that do not conform to societal norms, perceived as abnormal.
• Examples:
  • Fashion trends challenging societal norms, e.g., Vivienne Westwood's punk fashion.
  • Artists and musicians acting against the norm, e.g., men wearing women's clothing, destroying instruments on stage.

3. Bad Deviance

• Definition: Deviant activities that break laws and are undesirable by society.
• Examples: Murder, theft, sexual assault.
• Contextual Changes:
  • Homosexuality once seen as deviant; now changing attitudes have shifted views.
  • Murder contextually acceptable in war scenarios.

Social Construction of Deviance

• Deviance is dependent on societal norms and values.
• What is considered deviant in one society may not be in another.

Conclusion

• Deviance isn't inherently negative; it can lead to social change and innovation.
• Deviant behaviors have historically challenged and changed societal norms on sexism, racism, and homophobia.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding deviance requires consideration of societal norms and values.
• Recognizing the positive impacts of certain deviant behaviors in driving social progress.

End of Lecture