Lecture Notes: Deviance and Theories in Sociology

Introduction to Deviance

• Definition of Deviance: Behavior that differs from societal norms.
  • Not inherently negative or immoral.
  • Example: Vegetarians in a predominantly meat-eating society.
• Relative Nature of Deviance:
  • Context-dependent.
  • Influenced by individual groups and locations.
  • Standards for deviance can change.

Symbolic Interactionist Perspective

• Overview: Society is a product of everyday social interactions.
• Understanding Deviance: Analyzing everyday behavior helps define deviance.

Differential Association Theory

• Concept: Deviance is a learned behavior.
  • Result of exposure to others who violate norms.
• Learning Through Socialization:
  • Example: An athlete influenced by a team’s deviant norms (e.g., drug use).
  • Relationships with deviant individuals increase likelihood of learning deviant behaviors.

Labeling Theory

• Overview: Deviance is behavior judged and labeled by society.
  • Contextual determination (e.g., steroid use in sports).
• Types of Deviance:
  • Primary Deviance:
    • Minor societal reaction.
    • Little effect on self-esteem.
  • Secondary Deviance:
    • Severe negative reaction.
    • Can lead to stigmatization and escalation of deviant behavior.

Strain Theory

• Concept: Blockage from achieving culturally accepted goals can lead to deviance.
  • Frustration or strain when legitimate means are unavailable.
• Inequality and Opportunity:
  • Lack of resources can increase illegal means to success (e.g., steroid use due to inadequate training resources).
  • Deviant behaviors may become a means to achieve socially acceptable goals.

Conclusion

• Deviance is a complex concept within society.
• Different theories provide various perspectives on how deviance is learned and perceived.
• Understanding these theories is crucial for analyzing behavior within societal contexts.