Chapter 8: Deviance

Question 1

What is deviance?

Answer 1

behavior that deviates from established social norms, expectations, or rules within a society.

Question 2

Types of Deviance:
Explain the difference between negative and positive deviance, providing examples for each.

Answer 2

Negative Deviance: Behaviors that are considered inappropriate, harmful, or socially unacceptable (e.g., theft, violence, substance abuse, cheating).

Positive Deviance: Behaviors that depart from the norm in a virtuous, admirable, or beneficial way (e.g., acts of altruism, innovation, or heroism that exceed societal expectations).

Question 3

“Deviance Dance”:

Answer 3

The social process by which certain actions, attributes, and subject positions come to be understood as deviant.

ex: Lifting weights is accepted and reinforced, but is it meant for children?

Question 4

Sport is a place for tolerable deviance:

Answer 4

refers to a degree of tolerance for behaviors considered deviant in everyday life. It aligns with structural functionalism, which examines how different parts of society work together.

Ex: in everyday society speeding is illegal. However, in NASCAR, high speed and crashes are normal and entertaining.

Question 5

Under conformity:

Answer 5

Occurs when athletes or participants fail to meet the established rules, norms, or expectations of fair play and sportsmanship.

Examples: This can involve behaviors like cheating, using performance-enhancing drugs, or engaging in unsportsmanlike conduct.

Question 6

Over Conformity:

Answer 6

takes place when athletes adhere excessively to the rules and norms of the sport, often to the detriment of their well-being or the spirit of the game.

can manifest as an athlete adhering to strict dietary or training regimens to the point of compromising their health. It may also involve following the letter of the rules so closely that the spirit of the game or the enjoyment of competition is lost.

Question 7

what can be seen as over and under conformity?

Answer 7

Athletes using performance enhancing drugs

Question 8

consequences of over conformity?

Answer 8

may lead to physical or psychological strain and, in some cases, burnout.

Question 9

consequences of underconformity?

Answer 9

met with sanctions, disqualification, or a tarnished reputation, which can have serious repercussions for athletes.

Question 10

Functionalist view point of deviance:

First perspective

Answer 10

to say that people don’t follow the rules – people are inherently deviant.

In functionalism, deviance is often viewed as a violation of social norms or rules.

Question 11

The term “social fact” is associated with the sociologist Emile Durkheim. Define this term:

Answer 11

Durkheim argued that deviance is a social fact because it is a phenomenon present in every society. (functionalism)

Question 12

Functionalist view point of deviance:

second perspective

Answer 12

Some deviance is accepted and celebrated in sport. This acceptance can be explained from a functionalist perspective by considering the role of deviance in maintaining social order and equilibrium.

Question 13

Deviance and conflict theory:

Answer 13

Deviance is a social construction – a result of social conditions.

Question 14

What is the meaning of “Deviance in Sports is Socially Constructed”?

Answer 14

What’s considered “wrong” or “deviant” in sports is decided by society’s values, and it can change over time. (Conflict theory)

Question 15

According to Conflict Theory, why is deviance in sports considered a social construction?

Answer 15

Deviance in sports is viewed as a social construction because what is deemed “wrong” or “deviant” is shaped by society’s values, and these perceptions can evolve over time.

Question 16

How does the media impact public perceptions of deviance in sports?

Answer 16

in sports, shaping societal opinions and judgments.

Question 17

What often serves as a catalyst for deviance, according to Conflict Theory?

Answer 17

Deviance frequently arises as a response to social inequalities and injustices, highlighting the interconnectedness of deviant behavior with broader societal issues.

Question 18

How do people and organizations in sports influence what is considered deviant?

Answer 18

They shape societal judgments and perceptions of athletes’ behaviors.

Question 19

According to critical theories, who typically establishes norms and social control in sports?

Answer 19

Critical theories argue that dominant groups, often represented by older, white, middle-class men, establish norms and social control, defining what is considered ‘deviant’ in the realm of sports.

Question 20

What is the concern raised by critical theories regarding the diversity of rule-makers in sports?

Answer 20

Critical theories express concern that the lack of diversity among rule-makers, particularly in sports, may result in rules that do not consider or understand the perspectives and experiences of players from different backgrounds.

Question 21

According to the critical perspective, why might accusations of deviant behavior be seen as subjective?

Answer 21

Critical theory suggests that accusations of deviant behavior are subjective judgments influenced by the values and biases of those in power, challenging the legitimacy of rules and norms in sports.

Question 22

According to the concept of otherness, how is the idea of deviance created within a society?

Answer 22

Otherness posits that creating a deviant “other” is a cultural process where society, guided by shared cultural beliefs, decides who is considered deviant. It is not a natural or universal designation.

Question 23

How can people’s reactions vary when a group is labeled as different or deviant according to otherness?

Answer 23

Reactions to otherness can range from fear and loathing to admiration when a group is labeled as different or deviant, highlighting the diverse responses that society may have towards those marked as “others.”

Question 24

How do societal norms influence the perception of bodies marked as deviant?

Answer 24

Societal norms play a crucial role in deviantizing bodies, marking certain individuals as deviant based on physical appearance or behavior. This highlights how cultural beliefs impact the way bodies are perceived.

Question 25

In the context of athletes with disabilities, why might their bodies be considered deviant?

Answer 25

Athletes with disabilities may have bodies that deviate from the traditional or able-bodied norm, challenging societal expectations and definitions of athleticism, but they also break stereotypes and showcase resilience and diverse physical abilities.

Question 26

What role did Dr. Guttmann play in the history of disability sports, particularly the Paralympic movement?

Answer 26

Dr. Guttmann pioneered the Paralympic movement, emphasizing rehabilitation through sports and contributing to the grassroots and institutional origins of disability sports.

Question 27

Despite promoting inclusivity, what challenges does the Paralympics face, especially in terms of inclusion/exclusion?

Answer 27

The Paralympics faces challenges related to classification and eligibility criteria, impacting fair competition and raising questions about individuals with disabilities already competing in the Olympics.

Question 28

What questions are raised about fairness and competition in sports as technology advances, particularly in the context of cyborg athletes?

Answer 28

The advancement of technology raises questions about including cyborg athletes alongside able-bodied counterparts in sports, with discussions on whether certain prosthetics could provide an advantage, challenging traditional notions of fairness in competition.

Question 29

How is deviance defined within the sporting context, according to the concept of social control?

Answer 29

Deviance in sports is defined by people, groups, and organizations involved in sports. This includes actions like doping, cheating, or unsportsmanlike conduct, with definitions shaped by the perspectives of athletes, teams, governing bodies, and the wider sporting community.

Question 30

How is social control evident?

Answer 30

social control is evident in how rules and norms are established and maintained within the sporting context.

Question 31

What are the two main types of social control evident in sports?

Answer 31

Social control in sports manifests in formal and informal ways.

Question 32

what is formal social control in sports?

Answer 32

Formal social control is through official rules and regulations set by sports organizations.

Question 33

what is informal social control?

Answer 33

operates through unwritten rules and expectations within the sports culture, influenced by factors like peer pressure and team dynamics.

Question 34

How does social control in sports differentiate between direct and general aspects?

Answer 34

Social control in sports includes direct aspects, such as specific rules like equipment regulations, and general aspects, which encompass broader expectations like fair play, sportsmanship, and ethical behavior. Direct control is rule-specific, while general control upholds the values associated with sports in a broader sense.

Question 35

What is the Sport Ethic, and how does it involve making sacrifices?

Answer 35

The Sport Ethic, as defined by Hughes and Coakley, involves criteria accepted as defining what it means to be a real athlete. Making sacrifices, as a part of this ethic, refers to athletes sacrificing their health for success, compromising ethical standards, fair play, and the integrity of the sport.

Question 36

In the context of the Sport Ethic, what does “striving for distinction” entail?

Answer 36

“Striving for distinction” refers to the pursuit of excellence and standing out in a positive way. While athletes aim to exceed expectations, this pursuit may lead some to seek unfair advantages, compromising the spirit of fair competition and tarnishing achievements.

Question 37

According to the Sport Ethic, what are the aspects of accepting risks and refusing limits?

Answer 37

• Accepting risks involves athletes accepting the risks of actions like doping to be the best, even at the potential cost of getting caught.
• Refusing limits means surpassing perceived boundaries, with athletes striving to exceed what is considered possible in their sport.

Question 38

What is positive deviance in sports, and how does it differ from traditional deviance?

Answer 38

Positive deviance in sports occurs when athletes stand out in a positive way by enthusiastically embracing the key beliefs and expectations of their sport. It involves over-enthusiastically following norms, which can be seen in actions like widespread use of performance-enhancing drugs or extreme aggression in certain sports.

Question 39

How can the on-ice assault by Todd Bertuzzi be understood as an example of positive deviance in sports?

Answer 39

The on-ice assault by Todd Bertuzzi can be conceptualized as an overly enthusiastic engagement with celebrated hockey norms, including protecting teammates, playing physical, and sacrificing for the team. While an individual deviant act, it also reflects an extreme adherence to certain norms within the context of hockey culture.

Question 40

What does the term “WADA criteria” typically refer to in the context of prohibition, particularly in anti-doping efforts?

Answer 40

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) establishes criteria and standards to regulate and monitor doping in sports. The “WADA criteria” primarily relate to the list of prohibited substances and methods in anti-doping efforts, including substances with the potential to enhance performance, actions violating the spirit of sport, and those posing actual or potential health risks to athletes.

Question 41

How is the topic of performance-enhancing substances in sports characterized, and why is it considered a moral panic?

Answer 41

The topic of performance-enhancing substances in sports is often characterized by intense public scrutiny, creating a moral panic. It involves exaggerated portrayals of the nature, extent, and scope of the problem, shaping public perception and discourse.

Question 42

Why is it important to consider the history of cheating in sports when discussing performance-enhancing substances in sociology?

Answer 42

To understand the sociology of performance-enhancing substances, it’s crucial to consider the history of cheating in sports as part of the context. This helps apply sociological imagination and analyze the complexities surrounding the use of substances like steroids, erythropoietin (EPO), or human growth hormone (HGH) in sports.

Question 43

What are some problems associated with defining performance enhancement in sports, and what questions arise?

Answer 43

There are issues with definitions, such as why certain techniques are deemed acceptable while others are considered cheating. Questions include why steroids are seen as cheating, whereas methods like staying hydrated or using altitude tents are viewed as advanced training techniques. The acceptability of performance-enhancers and whether a practice is considered cheating when widespread are also debated.

Question 44

How is alcohol connected to sports, and what impact can it have on performance?

Answer 44

Sports and alcohol are closely connected, with some arguing that alcohol can reduce anxiety in certain sports situations. This challenges the notion that only substances enhancing physical abilities are considered performance-enhancing. Examples like alcohol or cannabis are suggested to ease anxiety, aiding athletes in situations where tension could affect their performance.

Question 45

What is the concept of “fluid drugs” in sports sociology, and how does it challenge fixed categorizations?

Answer 45

“Fluid drugs” in sports sociology suggest that the classification of a drug as either deviant or noble is not fixed and can vary. The concept prompts questioning whether a particular drug use is seen as socially unacceptable or admirable depending on the context, circumstances, and societal perspectives.

Question 46

What criticisms and arguments are raised against the policing of Performance-Enhancing Drugs (PED) use in sports?

Answer 46

Critics argue that drug-testing protocols violate the basic human rights of athletes. Additionally, there is a shift from ethical considerations about fairness to more technical and scientific approaches, neglecting fundamental questions about what is considered a “fair competition” in sports.

Question 47

How do drug testing rules and procedures not only aim for fairness but also affect athletes’ perspectives on themselves, their bodies, and their sports experiences?

Answer 47

Athletes undergoing regular drug testing may develop heightened awareness of their bodies and the impact of training, influencing their perspective on performance. The increased surveillance and inconsistency in applying rules raise concerns about trust breaking down among involved parties.

Question 48

What broader solutions are suggested in anti-doping efforts, and how does it relate to the idea of promoting athletes’ health?

Answer 48

Broader solutions in anti-doping efforts involve examining structured ways in which athletes’ training, diet, preparation, and physical changes are controlled. Promoting athletes’ health might include limiting intense training and competition or even eliminating or changing sports with a high risk of head injuries causing long-term brain damage. This approach aims to address health concerns rather than solely focusing on drug testing for fairness

Question 49

In what ways might coaches engage in deviant behavior within the realm of sports, particularly concerning their interactions with players?

Answer 49

Coaches can engage in deviant behavior by mistreating players verbally, emotionally, or physically. Additionally, some coaches might encourage or participate in cheating to secure victories, which contradicts the principles of fair play.

Question 50

What forms of deviant behavior might be exhibited by sports administrators, and how can this impact the sports environment?

Answer 50

Administrators may engage in corruption, involving actions like taking bribes, embezzling funds, or manipulating competitions for personal gain. Abuse of power is another form, where administrators make biased decisions favoring certain teams or individuals, potentially compromising the fairness and integrity of sports.

Question 51

What types of deviant behaviors can spectators and parents exhibit during sports events, and how does this affect the sports environment?

Answer 51

• Engaging in hooliganism Spectators (engaging in disruptive and violent behavior). posing a threat to safety.
• Parents and spectators might also contribute to a hostile environment by verbally abusing players, coaches, or officials.

Question 52

In what ways can referees or sports officials engage in deviant behavior, and what impact does this have on the sports competition?

Answer 52

Referees or officials may engage in bribery to influence game outcomes, and biased officiating that favors one team or player over another can be considered deviant. Such actions violate the impartiality expected in sports, potentially affecting the fairness of competitions.

Question 53

What does “off-the-field deviance” in sports refer to, and why is it important to consider athletes’ behavior outside the competitive arena?

Answer 53

behaviors or actions exhibited by athletes that are socially unacceptable, problematic, or in violation of established norms and rules outside the context of their sports activities. It is essential to consider athletes’ behavior beyond the field to understand the complex dynamics of deviance in sports.

Question 54

How does media framing influence the perception of deviant acts in sports, and what role does the media play in shaping public opinion?

Answer 54

The media plays a pivotal role in framing deviant acts in sports by selecting certain incidents for coverage while ignoring others. The criteria for selecting ‘deviant’ acts can vary, influencing public perceptions and contributing to the broader discourse around sports and deviance.

Question 55

What is the concept of “spoiled identity” concerning off-the-field deviance, and how does it contrast with “successful management”?

Answer 55

“Spoiled identity” refers to the negative impact on an individual’s reputation due to off-the-field deviant behavior, potentially leading to loss of trust and respect. In contrast, “successful management” involves an individual navigating and handling off-the-field deviance effectively, minimizing negative impacts on their reputation.