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