The Sociological Perspective on Deviance: Functions, Definitions, and Control

Introduction

Deviance, which refers to behavior that violates social norms, is a fundamental aspect of society influenced by various social and psychological factors. It is regulated through internal and external mechanisms of social control. Sociological theories provide explanations for the existence of deviance, its role in society, methods of regulation, and the psychological and social predispositions of deviant behavior.

Definition of Deviance

Deviance is characterized by behavior that departs from social norms and elicits a negative reaction within a specific group. It encompasses violations of informal social norms, such as etiquette, which are seen as mildly deviant, as well as violations of formally enacted rules, such as laws, which are severely punished. Since social norms differ across societies and cultures, there is no inherent deviant behavior. What may be considered inappropriate in one culture or group might be normal in another. Furthermore, societal perceptions of acceptable behavior change over time, leading to shifts in the collective understanding of deviance.

Functions of Deviance

According to the theory of functionalism, which asserts that every element of the social structure serves a specific function in maintaining societal stability, deviance is a normal and necessary part of social organization. Emile Durkheim, a prominent French sociologist and founder of functionalism, identified several functions of deviance. Firstly, deviance helps a society establish its moral boundaries and reaffirm social values and norms. By addressing deviant behavior through discovery and punishment, individuals are reminded of their shared notions of right and wrong. Deviance also contributes to the creation of norms, which guide behavior by establishing patterns of acceptable and unacceptable conduct.

Secondly, deviance promotes social unity within a group or society. Common reactions to deviant behavior strengthen social bonds, as people come together in response to crimes or anti-social acts that impact the community. However, differences in norms and values can also create boundaries and foster an "us-versus-them" mentality between different cultures, groups, and societies. This can lead to hostility towards individuals with different values. Nevertheless, deviance can also foster solidarity within marked communities, giving rise to deviant subcultures that take pride in their stigmatized identity.

Thirdly, deviance can promote social change and positive developments. Positive reactions to deviant behavior can initiate a process of change. This has been observed in the acceptance of previously stigmatized groups, such as the African American population in the mid-20th century and the LGBT community in the latter half of the 20th century. Gradual acceptance of these groups has led to social progress and increased inclusivity. Lastly, sociologist Herbert Gans proposed that deviance creates jobs aimed at addressing deviant behavior. Institutions such as the police, penitentiary systems, criminology, social psychology, and rehabilitation centers rely on the acknowledgement of deviant behavior to function. Conversely, individuals stigmatized as deviants often find themselves engaged in undesirable work that others would prefer not to perform.

Social Control

Travis Hirschi's social control theory posits that the strength of an individual's social bonds influences their likelihood of engaging in criminal activity. Strong social bonds increase commitment to the community and its shared norms and values, acting as mechanisms of social control. Social control encompasses the norms, laws, rules, and structures that regulate human behavior. Both informal control, exercised through customs, norms, expectations, and stereotypes, and formal control, enacted through laws and official regulations, are important components of social control. Informal control can range from disapproving looks for breaking etiquette to more severe sanctions for violating the rules of conduct within criminal gangs. Formal sanctions, imposed by the government, include fines, incarceration, and even the death penalty. The methods of punishment vary across societies and groups, and can evolve over time.

Reasons Behind Deviant Behavior

Despite efforts in socialization and social control, individuals continue to engage in deviant behavior. Sociological theories offer various perspectives on the factors that contribute to deviance. Both the functionalist and conflict theories emphasize aspects of a person's background that encourage deviant behavior. For instance, studies have shown that individuals with limited access to education and low income are more likely to turn to theft or drug dealing. The labeling theory suggests that location also plays a crucial role, with individuals from troubled neighborhoods displaying more deviant behavior.

From a psychological standpoint, individuals may be drawn to deviance not only due to societal and background influences but also because of emotional attraction. Deviant acts, such as shoplifting or drug use, can elicit emotions like thrill, excitement, and satisfaction from not being caught. Shoplifters may test their ability to secretly engage in deviance in public while appearing normal. For social deviants, their behavior allows them to experience emotions that adhering to social norms cannot provide.

Conclusion

Deviance is an integral part of every society and represents a normal variation of human behavior. As societal norms and values are established, social control mechanisms are put in place to regulate and punish deviant behavior. Deviance serves several functions within society, including the establishment of moral boundaries, the promotion of social unity, the potential for social change, and the creation of jobs within institutions that address deviant behavior. Social control, both informal and formal, plays a crucial role in maintaining social order and preventing deviance. Various factors, including social and economic background, location, and psychological attraction, contribute to deviant behavior. Understanding the complexities of deviance and its underlying causes is essential for creating effective strategies for prevention and intervention.