Differentiate the major functional theories
of deviance

the functionalist perspective emphasizes
social stability and the way the different
parts of society contribute to the whole.

functionalists believe that some deviance
can contribute to the smooth operation of
society.

deviance is both positive and negative

deviance erodes trust.

a society with widespread suspicion and
distrust cannot function smoothly.

if not punished or corrected, deviance can
also cause nonconforming behaviors in others.

deviance stimulates deviance in others.

deviant behavior is expensive. it diverts
resources, both human and monetary.

deviance clarifies norms by exercising social control to
defend its values.

society, defines, adjusts, and reaffirms norms.

deviance can be a temporary safety value.

deviance increases unity within a society or group. when
deviance reminds people of something they value, it
strengthens that value.

deviance also promotes needed social change.

anomie: a social condition in which norms are weak,
conflicting, or absent.

strain theory: theory that deviance is more likely to occur
when a gap exists between cultural goals and the ability
to achieve these goals by legitimate means.

every society establishes some goals and socially
approved way of obtaining them.

when people accept the goal and the means to achieve
it, it is called conformity.

conformity is not deviant behavior, the four responses to
strain are considered deviant though.

innovation: the individual accepts the goals of success
but uses illegal means to achieve it.
ex. robbery, drug dealing, lucrative criminal behavior

ritualism: the individual accepts the goal but continues
to use the legitimate means.
ex. a teacher who goes about daily routines of work
without any concern for students or quality of teaching

retreatism: both the legitimate means and the
approved goals are rejected. they do not seek success.
ex. skid-row alcoholics, drug addicts, bag ladies

rebellion: individuals reject both success and the
approved means of achieving it. they substitute a new
set of goals and means.
ex. creating your own currency, deliberately violating gun
laws, threatening violent behavior against law
enforcement officers

control theory: theory that compliance with
social norms requires strong bonds between
individuals and society.

if the bonds of the control theory are weak, if
anomie is present, deviance occurs.

in this theory social bonds control the behavior
of people, thus preventing deviant acts. people
conform because they don’t want to “lose
face” with family members, friends, classmates.

attachment: the stronger the attachment the
more likely to conform. (ex. ties with friends,
family, schools, churches, etc…)

commitment: the greater your commitment to
social goals, the more likely you are to
conform. (ex. the greater the commitment you
put down, the more likely you are to succeed)

involvement: participation in approved
social activities increases conformity.
ex. social interaction in clubs, sports, work,
etc…

belief: believed in norms and values of
society promotes conformity.
ex. religions, backgrounds, ethnicities

Anomie: a social condition in which norms are
weak, conflicting, or absent

Strain Theory: theory that deviance is more likely to
occur when a gap exists between cultural goals
and the ability to achieve these goals by
legitimate means

Control Theory: theory that compliance with social
norms require strong bonds between individuals
and society

What is Anomie?

What is the Strain Theory?

What is the Control Theory?

What are 2 Negative Effects of Deviance?

What are 2 Positive Effects to Deviance?

What are 4 Ways to Respond to Strain?

What are 4 Elements of Social Bonds?