Introduction to Sociology / Deviance / Suyeon Im

<Deviance>

1. Summary

Deviance is a act that violates the society's norm. The norm is the order in which humans can only perform what is expected in society. Deviance is divided into two main categories. These two categories are formal deviance and informal deviance. Formal deviance is a violation of the legally prescribed law. On the contrary, informal deviance is a violation of cultural norm. In the case of informal deviance, deviations from certain cultures may not be defined as a deviation from other cultures. Namely, informal deviance is relative.

In Social-Strain Typology, Robert K. Merton proposed a typology of deviant behavior. 

2. What I was interested

I was interested in Social-Strain Typology. This is because it did not explain the deviant behavior simply as abnormal behavior. this theory explained the deviation in terms of social values and goals.

3. Discussion point

●  In the United States, recidivism rate is relatively higher than other countries. One factor of this is social stigma about criminals. Should society stigmatize criminals and ignore them? Or should society help criminals not commit a crime?

● Informal deviance are relative, but the standard of formal deviance is defined. So, what is the basis for defining a formal deviance?