Question

deviance and social control open book test
part i - multiple choice (5 points each)

1. in sociology, deviance is defined as:

a. behavior that breaks a law
b. behavior that violates social norms
c. criminal behavior only
d. behavior punished by the state

1. according to émile durkheim, deviance serves what positive function in society?

a. it reduces social cohesion
b. it undermines moral order
c. it clarifies moral boundaries and promotes change
d. it leads to anomie and chaos

1. labeling theory suggests that deviance:

a. results from social strain and inequality
b. is learned through association
c. is the result of being defined or labeled as deviant by others
d. is biologically determined

Explanation:

1. In sociology, deviance is about violating social norms. Breaking a law (A) is a subset (criminal deviance), but deviance is broader. Criminal behavior only (C) is too narrow. Behavior punished by the state (D) is also a specific type. Social norms violation (B) is the general definition.
2. Émile Durkheim saw deviance as clarifying moral boundaries (e.g., when a deviant act is condemned, it shows what is acceptable) and promoting change (as society may adjust norms). Reducing social cohesion (A), undermining moral order (B), and leading to anomie and chaos (D) are negative views, not Durkheim's positive function.
3. Labeling theory focuses on the process of being labeled as deviant. Social strain and inequality (A) is strain theory. Learned through association (B) is differential association theory. Biologically determined (D) is a biological approach. Being defined/labeled as deviant (C) is key to labeling theory.

Answer:

1. B. Behavior that violates social norms
2. C. It clarifies moral boundaries and promotes change
3. C. Is the result of being defined or labeled as deviant by others