3.7. Deviance and Social Control

Deviance refers to behaviors, beliefs, or conditions that violate societal norms or expectations. It can range from minor infractions to major crimes. Deviance varies across cultures and is often defined by society’s rules and values.

Deviance is a term used to describe actions, beliefs, or characteristics that do not conform to the accepted norms of a society. These norms are the unwritten rules of behavior that are expected by a society. For example, something as simple as dressing differently might be seen as deviant in one culture, while in another, it might be completely acceptable. Additionally, deviance isn't limited to serious crimes; it includes any behavior that strays from what a society considers 'normal.'

Think about a school. If a student wears pajamas to school, that might be seen as deviant behavior since the norm is to wear appropriate clothing. In some cultures, being very expressive about one's emotions in public might be considered normal, while in others, it could be viewed as deviant.

Social control refers to the mechanisms society uses to regulate individual behavior and maintain social order. Formal Social Control: Laws, police, and the judicial system. Informal Social Control: Social norms, family expectations, and peer pressures.

Social control is the way that society ensures that its members follow accepted norms and laws. There are two main types: formal and informal. Formal social control includes laws and regulations enforced by authorities like the police or the judicial system. Informal social control occurs through social norms and pressures, such as expectations from family or friends. For instance, if someone is late to a family dinner, they may face disapproval from the family—this is informal social control.

Consider a community gathering. If someone arrives wearing inappropriate attire, they may receive disapproving looks or comments, which serve as a social control mechanism to encourage adherence to the community's informal dress code.

Strain Theory (Robert Merton): Suggests that deviance occurs when individuals cannot achieve societal goals through accepted means. Labeling Theory (Howard Becker): Suggests that deviance is a result of societal labels placed on individuals. Conflict Theory: Views deviance as a consequence of social inequality and power struggles within society.

There are various theories explaining why deviance occurs. Strain Theory posits that when people are unable to reach their cultural goals through accepted methods (like education and hard work), they might resort to deviance. Labeling Theory argues that societal labels, such as 'criminal' or 'deviant,' can lead individuals to accept these titles and act in accordance with them. Conflict Theory suggests that deviance is often linked to social inequality; those in power create and define what is considered deviant based on their interests.

Imagine a student who struggles in school and feels pressure to achieve high grades. If the student cannot meet these expectations through studying, they might cheat on tests. Here, strain theory applies as the student resorts to deviant behavior due to the inability to achieve goals. Alternatively, if that student is labeled as a 'troublemaker' after a single incident, they may begin to act out in ways that match that label, illustrating labeling theory.

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