Section 5: Theories of Deviance

Question 1

What are the Positive Perspectives?

Answer 1

Absolutism
Objectivism
Determinism

Question 2

Absolutism

Answer 2

Deviance is absolutely, intrinsically real; hence, deviance or deviants can be subject of study.

Question 3

Objectivism

Answer 3

Deviance is an observable object; hence, objective research methods can be used.

Question 4

Determinism

Answer 4

Deviance is determined behavior, a product of causation; hence, causal, explanatory theory can be developed.

Question 5

What are the Constructionist Perspectives?

Answer 5

Relativism
Subjectivism
Voluntarism

Question 6

Relativism

Answer 6

Deviance is a label, defined as such at a given time and place; hence, labelers, labeling, and impact of labeling can be subject of study.

Question 7

Voluntarism

Answer 7

Deviance is a voluntary act, an expression of free will; hence, non-causal, descriptive theory can be developed.

Question 8

Merton’s Anomie

Answer 8

The breakdown of social norms that results from society urging people to be ambitious and follow the norms and values of a society but failing to provide the opportunities to suceed.

Question 9

What are the Positivist Theories?

Answer 9

Anomie-Strain Theory
Social Learning Theory
Control Theory

Question 10

Anomie-Strain Theory

Answer 10

Social strain causes deviance.