Differentiate the major functional theories of deviance

 the functionalist perspective emphasizes social stability and the way the different parts of society contribute to the whole.  functionalists believe that some deviance can contribute to the smooth operation of society.  deviance is both positive and negative

 deviance erodes trust.  a society with widespread suspicion and distrust cannot function smoothly.  if not punished or corrected, deviance can also cause nonconforming behaviors in others.  deviance stimulates deviance in others.  deviant behavior is expensive. it diverts resources, both human and monetary.

 deviance clarifies norms by exercising social control to defend its values.  society, defines, adjusts, and reaffirms norms.  deviance can be a temporary safety value.  deviance increases unity within a society or group. when deviance reminds people of something they value, it strengthens that value.  deviance also promotes needed social change.

 anomie: a social condition in which norms are weak, conflicting, or absent.  strain theory: theory that deviance is more likely to occur when a gap exists between cultural goals and the ability to achieve these goals by legitimate means.  every society establishes some goals and socially approved way of obtaining them.  when people accept the goal and the means to achieve it, it is called conformity.

 conformity is not deviant behavior, the four responses to strain are considered deviant though.  innovation : the individual accepts the goals of success but uses illegal means to achieve it. ex. robbery, drug dealing, lucrative criminal behavior  ritualism : the individual accepts the goal but continues to use the legitimate means. ex. a teacher who goes about daily routines of work without any concern for students or quality of teaching

 retreatism : both the legitimate means and the approved goals are rejected. they do not seek success. ex. skid-row alcoholics, drug addicts, bag ladies  rebellion : individuals reject both success and the approved means of achieving it. they substitute a new set of goals and means. ex. creating your own currency, deliberately violating gun laws, threatening violent behavior against law enforcement officers

 control theory: theory that compliance with social norms requires strong bonds between individuals and society.  if the bonds of the control theory are weak, if anomie is present, deviance occurs.  in this theory social bonds control the behavior of people, thus preventing deviant acts. people conform because they don’t want to “lose face” with family members, friends, classmates.

 attachment : the stronger the attachment the more likely to conform. (ex. ties with friends, family, schools, churches, etc…)  commitment : the greater your commitment to social goals, the more likely you are to conform. (ex. the greater the commitment you put down, the more likely you are to succeed)

 involvement : participation in approved social activities increases conformity. ex. social interaction in clubs, sports, work, etc…  belief : believed in norms and values of society promotes conformity. ex. religions, backgrounds, ethnicities

 Anomie: a social condition in which norms are weak, conflicting, or absent  Strain Theory: theory that deviance is more likely to occur when a gap exists between cultural goals and the ability to achieve these goals by legitimate means  Control Theory: theory that compliance with social norms require strong bonds between individuals and society

 What is Anomie?  What is the Strain Theory?  What is the Control Theory?  What are 2 Negative Effects of Deviance?  What are 2 Positive Effects to Deviance?  What are 4 Ways to Respond to Strain?  What are 4 Elements of Social Bonds?