What is Deviance?

As discussed in our very first introductory class, the idea of deviance is one that is variably defined and understood. If you survey the host of (often simplistic) definitions offered by textbooks, dictionaries and other resources, this will be come evident immediately.

Of course, the whole point of studying the incidence of deviant behavior over the course of this term, is to understand how deviance is a living concept, one that is constantly changing and evolving based on social contexts. So a glossary definition simply would not suffice anyhow.

In class we will discuss three notable perspectives on deviance: classical theory, the positivist approach, and the social constructionist approach. Each approaches deviance from a different "angle."

Classical theory, as we will review, tends to view deviant behavior as a choice. The positivist approach largely discounts the focus on free will - at least in its earliest conception - and tend to come at deviance with the assumption that there are inherent (often biological) reasons for deviance. Furthermore, positivist approaches tend to argue that deviance itself is a more objective reality. This is largely due to positivism's growth out of the physical sciences, which focused largely on more tangible recordable observations via the earliest scientific methods. Finally, the constructionist perspective drives home the idea of subjectivity and relativity in the creation of deviance. The way we construct, conceive of, or name/label deviance is at center. Theories suggesting that societal reaction and labeling defines deviance tend to fall into this perspective.

As we explore our case studies you will find that explaining, understanding, and affecting deviant behavior may not fall neatly into ONE of these perspectives. Modern theory is increasingly integrative, and each of these theoretical approaches (including classical theory in its more modern derivatives) tend to bring insight to different types of behavior. This will become especially true when we begin to consider specific categories of behavior, and when we fully consider the varying levels of social consensus about deviance.

Additional Resources for This Topic

• Cortland eLearning
• Of Crimes and Punishments
• UCL Bentham Project