(Identification: Functions of Deviance)

Deviance serves as an outlet for diverse forms of expression.

It provides an alternative social outlet for those who feel they have no other way of expressing themselves.

Deviance serves to define the limits of acceptable behavior.

Deviance defines normative behavior as a constant reference of what society allows.

Deviance may also promote in-group solidarity.

Deviance may unite members of two opposing groups.

Deviance can serve as a barometer of social strain.

It can be symptomatic of bigger social ills, a sign of strain within a social system.

Informal sanctions

There are two types of sanctions:
- are unofficial, often causal pressures to conform.
Positive informal sanctions involve rewards for conformity or compliance. Examples of this are smiles, a kiss, an affirmation, or words of approval. Negative informal sanctions involve informal penalties for not conforming. These may take the form of ridicule, ostracism, rejection, and even expulsion from the group.

Formal sanctions

There are two types of sanctions:
- are official, institutionalized incentives to conform, and penalties for deviance. There are needed in large, complex societies. In modern societies, the criminal justice system is the most important and visible institution of social control. In work companies, employees who meet or exceed company’s goals or targets are rewarded with salary increase, promotion, or award. On the other hand, employees who perform poorly or break company rules are given sanctions like reprimand, suspension, demotion or dismissal from the service.

Social control

refers to the efforts of a group or society to regulate the behavior of its members in conformity with established norms.

Formal social control

is an official pressure intended to convince potential deviants to conform to social norms. It may take the form of arrest, pre-trial and trial, sentencing, and imprisonment.