Sociology of deviance
  • 1. Sociology of deviance is a subfield of sociology that examines behaviors and actions that are considered outside societal norms and standards. It focuses on understanding why certain behaviors are labeled as deviant, how these labels are applied, and the impact of societal reactions on individuals and groups. This field explores the social construction of deviance, the role of power dynamics in defining norms, and the implications of deviant behavior for social control and inequality. Sociologists of deviance seek to challenge and deconstruct conventional ideas about what is considered 'normal' in society, and to understand how these perceptions shape social interactions, institutions, and structures.

    What is the difference between crime and deviance?
A) Crime is only committed by certain groups.
B) There is no difference.
C) Deviance is worse than crime.
D) Deviance refers to behavior that violates social norms, while crime refers to behavior that breaks laws.
  • 2. Which theory suggests that deviance is a result of societal strains and opportunities for deviant behavior?
A) Strain theory.
B) Control theory.
C) Labeling theory.
D) Conflict theory.
  • 3. What is the term for the process by which an individual's status is transformed into a deviant identity?
A) Control theory.
B) Anomie theory.
C) Labeling theory.
D) Differential association theory.
  • 4. What role do social norms play in defining deviant behavior?
A) They establish boundaries of acceptable behavior.
B) They encourage all behavior equally.
C) They are irrelevant to deviance.
D) They are only applicable to certain groups.
  • 5. How does the conflict theory view deviance?
A) As a result of societal strains.
B) As a form of social inequality and power dynamics.
C) As a natural human instinct.
D) As a psychological disorder.
  • 6. According to the control theory, what prevents individuals from engaging in deviant behavior?
A) Strain and societal pressures.
B) Labeling by society.
C) Adherence to rigid rules.
D) Strong social bonds and attachments.
  • 7. According to social control theory, what is the role of informal social institutions in preventing deviance?
A) They impose harsh punishments on deviant individuals.
B) They actively promote deviant behavior.
C) They provide social relationships that deter individuals from deviant behavior.
D) They have no impact on deviance.
  • 8. What is secondary deviance?
A) Behavior that occurs in response to being labeled as deviant.
B) Deviance that is officially punishable by law.
C) Less serious deviant acts.
D) Deviance that is accepted by society.
  • 9. What is the term for a theory that suggests individuals conform to social expectations based on their bonds with others and institutions?
A) Strain theory.
B) Labeling theory.
C) Social control theory.
D) Conflict theory.
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