Deviance Theories Sociology

Strain Theory Robert K. Merton (F) Deviance is the natural High values on certain goals: economic success. Under the Strain of incompatible goals and means….victim to Anomie- a social condition in which norms are weak, conflicting or absent. Emile Durkheim

Five Modes to Adaptation Strain Theory

1. Conformity Accepts hard work as the appropriate way to succeed

2. Innovation Accepts the goals but do not accept the approved means. Use illegal means to achieve the goals.

Ritualism Gives up the goal while continuing to observe the expected rules of behavior. Go through the motions, gave up on the goal.

Retreatism Rejects the goals and the socially acceptable means of attaining them.

Rebellion Substitutes a new set of goals and means for achieving those goals.

Control Theory Travis Hirschi (F) Influenced by Durkheim Conformity result of Social Control Weak ties to the community…more likely to commit deviant acts. Communities have strong Social Bonds have lower rates of Deviant behavior.

Social Bonds Attachment to others Belief in the moral codes Commitment to traditional values/goals Involvement in nondeviant activities Strong bond leads to conformity b/c the individual has too much to lose!

Differential Association Theory (S) Edward Sutherland Criminal behavior is learned through interactions with others. A person is more likely to copy deviant behavior from a significant other. Younger children learn deviant behavior more quickly than older children. Why?

D.A.T. Criticisms and Contributions Fails to explain the deviant behavior of the first-time impulsive shoplifter or the improvised person who steals out of necessity. Directs our attention to the paramount role of social interaction.

Labeling Theory (S) Edwin Lemert Howard Becker Deviant identity Stigma: a powerfully negative public identity, to an individual who is believed to have violated important norms.

Two Types of Deviance (labeling) Primary Deviance Nonconformity that goes undetected by those in authority. Individuals who commit acts of P.D. do not consider themselves to be deviant. Secondary Deviance Norm violation is known, labeled as deviant. Impacts your life. Direct effects of stigmatization. Self-image….master status.

Formally Labeling individuals Degradation ceremony In a public setting, such as a trial, the individual is denounced, found guilty, and given a new “identity” of deviant. Society imposes a stigma that may be difficult to escape.

The End Sociology