Deviance Flashcards
What is deviance?
any action (formal or informal) that violates social norms
How is the difference between normative and non-normative (ie “deviant”) behavior maintained?
via punishments through formal and informal means
What is “differential association?”
through interactions with others, people learn the values, attitudes, techniques and motives for criminal behavior
Edwin Sutherland
What is “labeling theory?”
deviance is not inherent in an act, but instead focuses on the majority to negatively label minorities; deviance is determined by society’s reactions
Howard Becker
What is “structural strain theory?”
deviant behavior is inevitable when society doesn’t provide adequate means to achieve goals
Robert Merton
What are “sanctions?”
means of enforcing rules
What is a “positive” sanction?
a reward given for conforming to norms
What is a “negative sanction?”
a punishment given for violating norms
What is the difference between formal and informal sanctions?
informal sanctions occur during face-to-face interactions
formal sanctions serve as official recognition
What is an example of an informal (+) sanction?
an expression of thanks, or a compliment on a job well done
What is an example of a formal (+) sanction?
a promotion at work
What is an example of an informal (-) sanction?
an angry comment or reprimand
What is an example of a formal (-) sanction?
a parking fine
What is an example of a more?
value systems that can provide strong feelings when violated; something may not necessarily be illegal, but it is unethical such as a politician lying about their educational background
right vs wrong
What is an example of a folkway?
mildest type of norm that isn’t necessarily legal, but still shapes everyday behavior, such as facing backwards in an elevator
right vs rude
