A biological theory of deviance proposes that an individual deviates from
social norms largely because of their biological makeup
. The theory primarily pertains to formal deviance, using biological reasons to explain criminality, though it can certainly extend to informal deviance.
Which theories help explain deviance quizlet?
- Cultural transmission theory. Views deviance as a learned behavior through interaction with others.
- Structural strain theory. Proposed by sociologist Robert K. …
- Conflict theory. Believing that competition and social inequality lead to deviance.
- Control theory. …
- Labeling theory.
What are some examples of theories used in sociology to explain deviance?
one of the four theories or concepts to each group:
anomie; control; differential association and labeling
. Explain to the students that we will now study some theories that sociologists have used to explain why deviance occurs in a society.
Why are theories focused on or developed to explain crime useful for studies of deviance?
By specifying the causes of deviance, the theories
reveal how aspects of the social environment influence the behavior of individuals and groups
. Further, the theories suggest how changes in these influences may yield changes in levels of deviant behaviors.
Why is theory important to our understanding of deviance?
Theoretical solutions to the issue of deviance are especially important because
many of our current responses to deviant behavior are erroneously based on an individualistic notion of human nature
that does not take into account humans as social beings or the importance of social structure, social institutions, power, …
What are the four functions of deviance?
A pioneering sociologist Emile Durkheim
What are the 5 theories of deviance?
- Social strain typology, developed by Robert K. …
- According to Merton, there are five types of deviance based upon these criteria: conformity, innovation, ritualism, retreatism and rebellion.
How does control theory explain deviance?
Control theory stresses
how weak bonds between the individuals and society free people to deviate or go against the norms
, or the people who have weak ties would engage in crimes so they could benefit, or gain something that is to their own interest. This is where strong bonds make deviance more costly.
What was the primary entity through which deviance was discouraged?
Deviance occurs because of a weak ego/superego. No explicit motivation for delinquency, just a lack of controls and restraints in an individual. Like Freud, this theorist believed that
the family
was the primary entity through which deviant predispositions were discouraged.
Which theory of deviance focuses on individual abnormality and explains human behaviors as the result of biological instincts?
Biological theories
focus on individual abnormality and explain human behavior as the result of biological instincts. Psychological theories focus on individual abnormality and see deviance as the result of “unsuccessful socialization.” You just studied 30 terms!
What are the three major biological theories of deviance and crime?
In a society, the behavior of an individual or a group determines how a deviant creates norms. Three broad sociological classes exist that describe deviant behavior, namely,
structural functionalism
What is the relationship between deviance and crime?
Deviance is
behavior that violates social norms and arouses negative social reactions
. Crime is behavior that is considered so serious that it violates formal laws prohibiting such behavior. Social control refers to ways in which a society tries to prevent and sanction behavior that violates norms.
Who decides what should be deviance?
In a society,
the behavior of an individual or a group
determines how a deviant creates norms. Three broad sociological classes exist that describe deviant behavior, namely, structural functionalism, symbolic interaction
What are the 5 functions of deviance?
Deviance affirms cultural values and norms
. Responding to deviance clarifies moral boundaries. Responding to deviance promotes social unity. Deviance encourages social change.
What are some valuable functions of deviance?
- Deviance affirms cultural values and norms.
- Responding to deviance clarifies moral boundaries.
- Responding to deviance promotes social unity.
- Deviance encourages social change.
- Deviance provides a safety valve for discontented people.
How deviance can be positive?
Positive Deviance
