SOC 102 Topic 3 DQ 1

Using the three major sociological theories, explain each theoretical perspective on deviance. Then compare and contrast the role deviance plays in society according to the theories. Use Figure 5.1 in Our social world: An introduction to sociology as an aid to answer this DQ.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS 

Theoretical perspective on deviance.

In this blog post, I’ll be discussing deviance from a theoretical perspective. I’ll be discussing what deviance is, how it’s defined, and the different types of theories that attempt to explain it. Deviance is a broad topic with a lot of different facets, so this will only be a brief overview. Hopefully, this will give you a better understanding of the subject and maybe even get you interested in learning more.

Durkheim’s perspective on deviance

According to Durkheim, deviance is a necessary and functional part of society. It is not something that should be eliminated, but rather managed and controlled. Deviance serves as a way to release tension and conflict in society, and also allows for innovation and change. Without deviance, societies would be stagnant and unable to adapt.

Merton’s perspective on deviance

Merton’s perspective on deviance is that it is the result of a person’s inability to conform to the expectations of society. This results in a person feeling alienated from society and resorting to deviant behavior in order to cope. Merton believed that there are two types of deviance: primary deviance, which is when a person first violates social norms and is not yet fully integrated into society, and secondary deviance, which is when a person has been labeled as deviant and becomes further estranged from society.

Alternative perspectives on deviance

There are a number of different theoretical perspectives on deviance, each with its own unique take on why deviant behavior occurs. The following are some of the most prominent alternative perspectives on deviance.

The first alternative perspective is the strain theory, which suggests that deviant behavior is a result of the strain or stress that individuals experience in their lives. This can be due to a number of factors, such as poverty, unemployment, or social exclusion. The second perspective is labeling theory, which posits that individuals become labeled as “deviant” by society and then internalize this label. This can lead to further deviant behavior as individuals come to believe that they are truly deviant.

The third perspective is control theory, which suggests that we all have the potential to engage in deviant behavior, but it is our attachments to others (such as family, friends, and community) that prevent us from doing so. Finally, critical theory takes a more sociological approach and looks at how power and inequality can lead to deviance. Regardless of which perspective one subscribes to, it is clear that there are a variety of ways to view deviance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, deviance is a complex and multi-dimensional phenomenon. There is no one theoretical perspective that can explain all facets of deviance. Instead, multiple perspectives are needed to gain a comprehensive understanding of why people engage in deviant behavior. By considering the various sociological theories of deviance, we can develop a more nuanced understanding of the motivations behind deviant behavior and the societal factors that contribute to its occurrence.

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