Introduction to Sociology Exam #3 Review Sheet

A collection of key sociological terms and concepts relevant to deviance and social stratification.

Deviance

Violation of norms, rules, or expectations.

Howard Becker

Sociologist who posited that deviance results from societal labeling, not inherent in the act itself.

Stigma

Characteristics that discredit people outside regular norms.

Social Order

A group's customary social arrangements that members depend on.

Negative Sanctions

Expressions of disapproval for breaking a norm.

Positive Sanctions

Expressions of approval for following a norm.

Sociobiological Perspective of Deviance

Explains deviance through genetic predispositions modified by the environment.

Psychological Perspective of Deviance

Focuses on personality disorders and psychological factors driving deviance.

Differential Association Theory

Indicates people learn definitions of deviance from groups they associate with.

Labeling Theory

The view that labels affect how individuals perceive themselves and behave.

Strain Theory

Introduced by Robert Merton, explains the strain when there is a disconnection between cultural goals and approved means.

Control Theory

Walter Reckless's theory that inner and outer controls influence deviant behavior.

White-Collar Crime

Crimes committed by individuals of high social status in their occupation.

Conflict Theory

Views the criminal justice system as protecting the rich and powerful while oppressing the poor.

Illegitimate Opportunity Structure

Opportunities for crimes woven into social life.

Capital Punishment

The death penalty.

Social Stratification

The division of society into layers based on property, power, and prestige.

Caste System

A form of social stratification where status is determined at birth.

Bonded Labor (Indentured Service)

A contractual system where people sell their services for a specified period.

Anomie

A condition where societal norms are absent or conflicting.

Cultural Capital

Non-financial social assets that promote social mobility.

Horatio Alger Myth

The belief that anyone can succeed through hard work.

Feminization of Poverty

The trend where women represent a disproportionate percentage of the world's poor.