PSY 309 Chapter 6: Ch 6
Document Summary
Deviance is a behavior, trait, or belief that departs from a norm and generates a negative reaction in a particular group. Defining something as deviant requires us to examine the group norms and how the group reacts to the behavior. What is deviant in one culture may not be deviant in another culture. Functionalism: deviance serves a function in our society, according to emile durkheim, deviance serves a positive social function by clarifying moral boundaries and promoting social cohesion. Conflict theory: deviance is a result of social conflict. In order for the powerful to maintain their power, they marginalize and criminalize the people who threaten their power. Inequality is reproduced in the way deviance is defined.
