Which of the following would sociologists consider the best definition of deviance?
- Actions that are to harmful to society
- violations of social norms
- criminal activities
- immoral or unethical behaviors
- illegal activities
Answers: b. violations of social norms
Answer Explanation
In sociology, deviation refers primarily to behaviors that deviate from the established social norms of a particular society or culture. Norms are the unwritten rules, values, and expectations that guide individual behavior within a community. Deviance is defined as any behavior or action that does not adhere to these accepted norms. This definition has several advantages:
1. Inclusivity:
Deviance is defined broadly as “violations of social norms” and encompasses a wide variety of behaviors. As a comprehensive definition, it encompasses both minor violations, such as arriving late to a meeting, as well as more severe deviations, such as criminal activity. Sociologists can study deviance in its various forms because this definition is comprehensive.
2. Contextual Understanding:
Sociologists acknowledge that what is considered deviant in one society or culture may not be perceived that way in another. Taking into account the context of deviance, this definition emphasizes the importance of understanding the norms and values of a community before labeling certain behaviors as deviant.
3. Flexibility:
Social norms cannot remain fixed and can change over time. Therefore, this definition of deviance allows for flexibility as societal norms change as culture, technology, and other factors change. A deviant act in the past might now be acceptable.
Why the other options are not correct
a. Actions that are harmful to society :
Deviant actions can sometimes harm society; however, not all actions that harm society are necessarily deviant. Moreover, some behaviors deemed deviant might not directly harm society but simply challenge established norms.
c. Criminal activities:
There is a difference between criminal activities and deviant behaviors. Some societies may consider certain behaviors as criminal, while others do not, highlighting how deviance is relative and culturally specific.
d. Immoral or unethical behaviors
A society may perceive something as immoral in one society but accept it in another, making this definition subjective and culturally biased.
e. Illegal activities
In the same way that criminal acts constitute a form of deviance, illegal acts are only one category of deviance. The legality of an act varies by country and jurisdiction and does not necessarily reflect societal norms.
Conclusion
Based on a sociological perspective, “violations of social norms” is the most accurate definition of deviance. Deviance refers to behaviors that diverge from accepted norms within a society, and this definition explains why the concept is contextual, flexible, and inclusive.
In other cases, deviance is not captured effectively due to its complexity and cultural relativity, so their application within sociology is limited. It is essential for sociologists to understand deviance to understand social order, norms, and how societies maintain conformity. By studying deviance, sociologists gain valuable insight into human behavior and social control mechanisms.
Which of the following best describes how deviance is defined?
I am Bibisha Shiwakoti a final year BBS student from Janapremi College. I have completed my higher secondary education at Kalinchowk Secondary School.
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