Sociology of Deviance & Crime: Key Theories and Concepts

Chapter 8: Deviance & Crime ===

Deviance

Recognized violation of cultural norms.

Crime

Violation of formally enacted criminal law (a type of deviance).

Social Control

Society's attempts to regulate behavior.

Durkheim's Functions of Deviance

Affirms values, defines boundaries, unites people, encourages change.

Merton's Strain Theory

Deviance results from gap between goals (success) and means (opportunity).

Merton's Five Responses

Conformity, Innovation, Ritualism, Retreatism, Rebellion.

Labeling Theory (Becker)

Deviance depends on how others respond, not the act itself.

Primary vs Secondary Deviance

Primary = minor acts; Secondary = deviant identity develops.

Differential Association (Sutherland)

Deviance is learned from others.

Control Theory (Hirschi)

Strong social bonds prevent deviance (Attachment, Commitment, Involvement, Belief).

Medicalization of Deviance

Turning moral/legal deviance into medical conditions (e.g., alcoholism).

Spitzer (Deviance and Capitalism)

People who threaten capitalism are labeled deviant.

Four Purposes of Punishment

Retribution, Deterrence, Rehabilitation, Societal Protection.

Due Process

Fair and equal treatment under the law.

Plea Bargaining

Negotiating a guilty plea for a lighter sentence.