What is deviance in sociology?
The violation of norms (rules or expectations).
Why is deviance considered a “neutral” term in sociology?
It refers to rule-breaking without judging whether it is good or bad.
What is stigma?
A characteristic that discredits a person’s identity (e.g., physical traits, disabilities, associations).
What is crime?
The violation of norms that are written into law.
What does it mean that deviance is relative?
What is deviant in one culture or group may be normal in another.
Why are norms important for society?
They make behavior predictable and create social order.
What is social control?
Formal and informal ways a group enforces norms.
What are negative sanctions?
Punishments for breaking norms (e.g., gossip → prison)
What are positive sanctions?
Rewards for following norms (e.g., praise, promotions).
What do sociobiological explanations focus on?
Genetic predispositions influencing deviance.
What do psychological explanations focus on?
Personality disorders and internal mental processes.
What do sociological explanations focus on?
External social factors like groups, class, and environment.
What is differential association theory?
People learn deviance or conformity from the groups they associate with.
What is control theory?
Deviance is prevented by inner controls (conscience) and outer controls (society).
What are the 4 elements of strong social bonds (control theory)?
Attachment, commitment, involvement, belief.
What is labeling theory?
Labels shape how people see themselves and how others treat them.
What are techniques of neutralization?
Ways people justify deviant behavior to avoid guilt.
List the 5 techniques of neutralization.
Denial of responsibility
Denial of injury
Denial of victim
Condemnation of condemners
Appeal to higher loyalties
How does deviance benefit society (Durkheim)?
Clarifies moral boundaries
Promotes social unity
Encourages social change
What is strain theory?
Deviance results when people cannot achieve cultural goals through legitimate means.
What are cultural goals?
Society’s desired outcomes (e.g., success, wealth).
What are institutionalized means?
Approved ways to achieve goals (e.g., education, jobs).
What are the 5 responses to strain?
Conformity
Innovation
Ritualism
Retreatism
Rebellion
What is innovation?
Accept goals but use illegitimate means (e.g., crime)
