M1D1: Deviance Typology

Upon successful completion of this activity, students will be able to:

1. Explain the concept of social deviance and provide examples of deviant behavior in social context

2. Use major theoretical perspectives to understand deviant behavior and social reactions to and consequences of deviant behavior.

Now that you have been introduced to the academic concept of deviant behavior, I would like you to think about applying this idea to behavior that you observe in the world.  The online discussion will be a place for you to share your insights about these ideas with your classmates and to get feedback on your ideas, as well as to provide feedback to your peers.

Respond to the following:

Describe and discuss a current social trend or phenomenon using the four categories of the “Deviance Typology.”  Give an example of “Negative Deviance,” “Rate Busting,” “Deviance Admiration” and “Positive Deviance.”

Discuss which members of society are likely to perceive the trend you are discussing from which perspective.  For example, attending Justin Beiber’s movie (or concert) could be understood in a number of different ways using these theories; which members of society would see this act in which light and why?

M1D2: Labeling Theory

As you begin to think about deviant behavior from a social constructionist perspective, you may recognize yourself as “deviant” in ways that you had not considered before.  Howard Becker suggests that deviance is “in the eye of the beholder.”  For this discussion, I want you to imagine how you have constructed deviants in the way that you “behold” folks who are different from you.

Respond to the following:

Howard Becker states, “…social groups create deviance by making the rules whose infraction constitutes deviance, and by applying those rules to particular people and labeling them as outsiders.  From this point of view, deviance is not a quality of the act the person commits, but rather a consequence of the application by others of the rules and sanctions to an ‘offender’” (40-41).Think of a group that you belong(ed) to that has/had special rules specific to that group.  Describe how those rules can be applied to non-members to differentiate them from the group and to label them as outsiders.  Some examples could include clubs, gangs, sports teams (or fans), cliques, or any other group with rules that are written or understood by members.