Deviance
Deviance refers to any behavior, belief, or condition that violates significant social
norms or societal expectations. What is considered deviant can vary greatly across
different cultures and societies. Deviance can range from minor infractions like wearing
unusual clothing to serious crimes like theft or murder. Sociologists study deviance to
understand how social norms are established, maintained, and enforced, as well as to
examine the consequences of deviant behavior for individuals and society as a whole.
Types
Deviance in society refers to behavior, beliefs, or characteristics that violate social
norms and expectations. Deviant behavior can range from minor infractions to serious
crimes, and it can vary across different cultures, contexts, and historical periods. Here
are some common types of deviance:
1. Informal Deviance: This type of deviance involves minor transgressions of
social norms that typically do not result in serious consequences. Examples
include wearing unusual clothing, breaking etiquette norms, or engaging in
unconventional hobbies or interests.
2. Formal Deviance: Formal deviance involves more serious violations of societal
norms that are codified into laws or regulations. This includes criminal behavior
such as theft, assault, damage, or drug trafficking. Formal deviance is typically
met with formal sanctions by institutions like the criminal justice system.
3. Primary Deviance: Primary deviance refers to the initial act of violating a social
norm or engaging in deviant behavior. It may be a one-time occurrence or part of
a pattern of behavior. Primary deviance may not necessarily lead to the individual
being labeled as deviant by society.
4. Secondary Deviance: Secondary deviance occurs when an individual
internalizes the deviant label imposed on them by society as a result of primary
deviance. This can lead to the individual adopting a deviant identity and
engaging in further deviant behavior as a response to societal reactions and
labeling processes.
5. Positive Deviance: Positive deviance involves behavior that deviates from
societal norms in a way that is viewed positively or beneficially by society.
Examples include acts of heroism, innovation, or social activism that challenge
existing norms and contribute to positive social change.
6. Negative Deviance: Negative deviance involves behavior that deviates from
societal norms in a way that is viewed negatively or harmfully by society. This
includes criminal behavior, substance abuse, destruction, and other actions that
undermine social order and cohesion.
7. Relative Deviance: Relative deviance refers to behavior that is considered
deviant in one cultural or social context but may be considered normal or
acceptable in another context. Cultural norms and values shape what is
considered deviant behavior, so behavior that is deviant in one society may be
tolerated or even celebrated in another.
Summary: Understanding the various types of deviance helps sociologists analyze how
social norms are constructed, enforced, and challenged within different societies. It also
highlights the complex interplay between individual behavior, societal reactions, and
structural factors that shape patterns of deviance in society.
