Sociological Explanations for Deviance
Symbolic Interactionist Perspective
Differential
Association
Theory
Learn to deviate or to conform to society’s
norms mostly by the different groups we
associate with
Control Theory
Idea that two control systems –
- inner controls (conscience, morals,
ideas of right and wrong)
- outer controls (people – family, friends)
work against our tendencies to deviate.
Labeling Theory
Labels that people are given affect their own
and other’s perceptions of them  channeling
their behavior either into deviance or into
conformity
Techniques of Neutralization – ways of
thinking or rationalization that help people
deflect society’s norms
1. Denial of Responsibility – “I couldn’t
help myself” or “It was an accident.”
2. Denial of Injury – “Who really got
hurt?”
3. Denial of a Victim – “They deserved
what they got.”
4. Condemnation of the Condemners –
“Who are you to talk?”
5. Appeal to Higher Loyalties – “I had to
help my friends – wouldn’t you have
done the same thing.”
Sociological Explanations for Deviance
Functionalist Perspective
Deviance has three main functions:
1. Deviance clarifies moral boundaries and affirms norms
2. Deviance promotes social unity
3. Deviance promotes social change
Strain Theory
People who feel strain are likely to feel anomie
– a sense of normlessness (mainstream norms
don’t seem to be getting them anywhere, can’t
identify with the norms of society)
Illegitimate
Opportunity
Structures
Opportunities that are woven into the texture of
life
Illegal opportunities are available to
different social classes to reach the
institutionalized means/success
Ex. Street Crimes – robbery, prostitution,
gambling, drugs
White Collar Crimes – bribery of
public officials, false advertising,
embezzlement
Sociological Explanations for Deviance
Conflict Perspective
Class, Crime, and Group in power imposes its definition of
the Justice System deviance on other groups (Capitalists vs.
Working Class)
Law is an instrument of oppression by the
ruling class – to keep the less privileged in
their place.
Ruling class uses the criminal justice system
to punish the poor, while diverting/protecting
their crimes.
Ex. sentences for white collar crimes vs.
street crimes