SOCIOL 2C06 Study Guide - Left Realism, Lindsay Lohan, Separatist Feminism
5 Dec 2013
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The presence of certain characteristics defines deviance; behaviours or people with those characteristics are deviant, and those lacking these characteristics are normal. By looking at these characteristics, we can all identify deviance. Some of these deviant traits: statistical rarity: if a behaviour or characteristic is not typical, it is deviant. Some behaviours are not statistically rare, but are still perceived as being deviant (eg: 66% of 12-15 year olds have consumed alcohol). There are many rare behaviours/characteristics that are not considered deviant (eg: left handed people): harm: if an action causes harm (physical/emotional), it is deviant. Physical/emotional harm done to others or oneself (eg: assault, smoking, emotional abuse, repeatedly dating partners with addictions). Social harm: interfere with the smooth running of society as a whole. Criticism: claims of physical harm can be disputed (eg: tobacco industry claimed that smoking does not cause harm).
