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33 views13 pages

FarahDoumani Deviance&SocialControl

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Farah Doumani
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© © All Rights Reserved
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DEVIANCE AND

SOCIAL CONTROL

Student: Farah Doumani Lebanese University, Institute of Social


Lecturer: Dr. Abbas Hamadi Sciences, Branch II, Rabieh
Course: Sociology of Deviance Date: 03/01/2024
DEVIANCE - DEFINITION:
Deviance refers to any behavior, belief, or condition
that violates societal norms. It is a relative concept, as
what is considered deviant varies across cultures and
societies. Deviance can range from minor infractions
of informal norms (e.g., wearing mismatched socks)
to serious violations of formal norms or laws (e.g.,
theft, murder).
3

DEVIANCE -
CHARACTERISTICS:
Deviance is…

1- Socially Constructed: Deviance is not an


inherent quality of an act but is socially constructed.
It depends on the cultural and social context within
which the behavior occurs.

2- Relative in Nature: Deviance is relative, meaning


that what is considered deviant in one culture or
society may not be seen as deviant in another.
4

DEVIANCE -
CHARACTERISTICS:

3- Varying in Degrees: Deviance exists on a continuum,


with some acts being considered more deviant than
others. The severity of societal reaction often depends
on the perceived harm or threat posed by the deviant
behavior.

4- Context-Dependent: Deviance is often context-


dependent. The same behavior may be deviant in one
setting but not in another.
5

DEVIANCE - THEORIES:

1- Strain Theory: Developed by Robert K. Merton, this theory


suggests that deviance occurs when individuals experience a
disconnection between societal goals (such as economic success)
and the legitimate means available to achieve those goals. Deviant
behavior can be a response to the strain created by this imbalance.

2- Labeling Theory: This theory focuses on the process of labeling


individuals as deviant and explores how societal reactions and
labels can contribute to the continuation of deviant behavior. It
highlights the importance of social context and the effects of being
stigmatized.
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DEVIANCE - THEORIES:

3- Social Control Theory: This theory emphasizes the factors that


keep individuals from engaging in deviant behavior. It suggests that
strong social bonds, attachments, and a sense of belonging reduce
the likelihood of deviance. In contrast, weakened social bonds can
lead to an increased likelihood of deviant behavior.

4- Conflict Theory: According to conflict theorists, deviance is a


result of social inequality and the competition for resources.
Deviant acts can be a form of resistance against oppressive social
structures.
7

SOCIAL CONTROL -
DEFINITION:
Social control refers to the mechanisms, strategies,
and institutions that societies use to regulate
individual behavior and maintain order.
It involves the processes through which conformity
to social norms is encouraged and deviance is
discouraged.
SOCIAL CONTROL –
TYPES:
1- Formal Social Control: Enforced by official institutions,
such as the legal system and law enforcement. It includes
laws, rules, and regulations with prescribed punishments for
violations.

2- Informal Social Control: Operates through interpersonal


relationships, family, peers, and community. It involves
informal sanctions such as social approval, disapproval,
ridicule, or exclusion.
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SOCIAL CONTROL –
AGENTS:
1- Government and Legal System: Enforces formal social
control through laws, regulations, and the justice system.

2-a) Family and Education: Play an informal role in


instilling values, norms, and acceptable behavior in
individuals.
10

SOCIAL CONTROL –
AGENTS:
2-b) Peer Groups: Influence behavior through informal
social control, often through peer pressure, social approval, or
disapproval.

2-c) Media and Technology: Can shape societal norms and


influence behavior through the informal portrayal of certain
behaviors as acceptable or unacceptable.
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SOCIAL CONTROL –
PROCESSES
1- Socialization: The process through which individuals
learn societal norms and values, internalizing them as part of
their identity.

2- Sanctions: Positive or negative reactions to behavior that


help maintain or modify social norms. These can be formal
(e.g., legal penalties) or informal (e.g., social disapproval).
12

SOCIAL CONTROL –
PROCESSES
3- Surveillance: Monitoring and observation of individuals
to ensure adherence to social norms. This can be carried out
by institutions such as the government, workplaces, or even
communities.

4- Normalization: The process by which certain behaviors


become normalized or stigmatized in society, influencing
individuals to conform.
SUMMARY
Deviance and social control are interconnected
aspects of social life. Deviance challenges established
norms, and social control mechanisms are in place to
maintain order, regulate behavior, and reinforce
societal expectations. The relationship between these
two concepts is dynamic and shapes the fabric of
societies.

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