From Individual to Collective Deviance

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 130 views

The Evolution of Deviance: Understanding the Concept in a Changing World

Deviance is a fundamental concept in sociology that refers to behavior or actions that violate social norms, rules, and expectations. As societies change and different groups gain access to power, the definition of deviance will remain the same. This statement may seem straightforward, but it raises important questions about the nature of deviance and how it is perceived in different contexts. In this article, we will explore the concept of deviance, its evolution over time, and how it is influenced by social change.

What is Deviance?

Deviance is a term used to describe behavior or actions that are considered abnormal or unacceptable by a particular group or society. It can take many forms, including crime, social transgressions, and cultural differences. Deviance can be intentional or unintentional, and it can be caused by a variety of factors, including social, cultural, and economic influences.

Types of Deviance

There are several types of deviance, including:

Crime: Behavior that is prohibited by law and punishable by the state.
Social Transgressions: Behavior that violates social norms and expectations, but is not necessarily illegal.
Cultural Differences: Behavior that is considered normal in one culture, but is considered deviant in another.
Psychological Deviance: Behavior that is caused by mental health issues or other psychological factors.

The Evolution of Deviance

Deviance has evolved over time, reflecting changes in societal values, norms, and expectations. For example:

From Taboo to Acceptance: In the past, certain behaviors, such as premarital sex and same-sex relationships, were considered taboo and deviant. However, with the rise of the sexual revolution and the LGBTQ+ movement, these behaviors have become more accepted and mainstream.
From Deviance to Normalcy: In some cases, behaviors that were once considered deviant have become more accepted and even normalized. For example, the use of marijuana has become more accepted in some societies, and is now legal in many places.
From Individual to Collective Deviance: In the past, deviance was often seen as an individual problem. However, with the rise of social movements and collective action, deviance is now often seen as a collective problem that requires a collective solution.

The Impact of Social Change on Deviance

Social change can have a significant impact on deviance, influencing how it is perceived, defined, and addressed. For example:

Changes in Social Norms: Changes in social norms can influence what is considered deviant behavior. For example, the rise of the #MeToo movement has led to a reevaluation of what constitutes acceptable behavior in the workplace.
Changes in Power Dynamics: Changes in power dynamics can influence who is considered deviant and who is not. For example, in the past, women were often considered deviant for speaking out against patriarchal norms. However, with the rise of feminism, women are now more empowered to speak out and challenge these norms.
Changes in Cultural Values: Changes in cultural values can influence what is considered deviant behavior. For example, in some cultures, individualism is valued over collectivism. In these cultures, behavior that is considered deviant in collectivist cultures, such as prioritizing personal goals over group goals, may be more accepted.

In conclusion, deviance is a complex and multifaceted concept that has evolved over time. As societies change and different groups gain access to power, the definition of deviance will remain the same. However, the way it is perceived, defined, and addressed will change. Understanding the concept of deviance and its evolution is essential for addressing social problems and promoting social change.

Becker, H. S. (1963). Outsiders: Studies in the sociology of deviance. Free Press.
Goffman, E. (1963). Stigma: Notes on the management of spoiled identity. Prentice Hall.
Merton, R. K. (1938). Social structure and anomie. American Sociological Review, 3(5), 672-682.
Sutherland, E. H. (1947). Principles of criminology. J.B. Lippincott Company.
Frequently Asked Questions: Understanding Deviance

Deviance is a complex and multifaceted concept that has been studied extensively in sociology. In our previous article, we explored the concept of deviance, its evolution over time, and how it is influenced by social change. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about deviance, providing a deeper understanding of this important concept.

Q: What is the difference between deviance and crime?

A: Deviance refers to behavior or actions that violate social norms, rules, and expectations. Crime, on the other hand, refers to behavior that is prohibited by law and punishable by the state. While all crimes are deviant, not all deviant behavior is criminal.

Q: Can deviance be intentional or unintentional?

A: Yes, deviance can be both intentional and unintentional. Intentional deviance refers to behavior that is deliberately chosen to violate social norms or rules. Unintentional deviance, on the other hand, refers to behavior that is caused by ignorance, mistake, or circumstance.

Q: How does social change influence deviance?

A: Social change can have a significant impact on deviance, influencing how it is perceived, defined, and addressed. Changes in social norms, power dynamics, and cultural values can all influence what is considered deviant behavior.

Q: Can deviance be a positive force for social change?

A: Yes, deviance can be a positive force for social change. By challenging existing social norms and rules, deviance can bring attention to social problems and inspire change. For example, the civil rights movement in the United States was fueled by deviant behavior, such as protests and sit-ins, that challenged racist laws and social norms.

Q: How can we address deviance in a way that promotes social change?

A: To address deviance in a way that promotes social change, we need to understand the underlying causes of deviance and address the social problems that give rise to it. This may involve changing social norms, laws, and policies to create a more just and equitable society.

Q: Can deviance be a personal or collective problem?

A: Deviance can be both a personal and collective problem. While individual behavior may be deviant, it is often influenced by social and cultural factors that are beyond individual control. Collective deviance, on the other hand, refers to behavior that is shared by a group or community.

Q: How can we prevent deviance from becoming a social problem?

A: To prevent deviance from becoming a social problem, we need to create a society that values diversity, promotes social inclusion, and addresses social problems before they become deviant behavior. This may involve education, social programs, and policy changes that promote social cohesion and reduce social inequality.

In conclusion, deviance is a complex and multifaceted concept that has been studied extensively in sociology. By understanding the concept of deviance and its evolution, we can better address social problems and promote social change. We hope that this Q&A article has provided a deeper understanding of deviance and its importance in shaping our society.

Becker, H. S. (1963). Outsiders: Studies in the sociology of deviance. Free Press.
Goffman, E. (1963). Stigma: Notes on the management of spoiled identity. Prentice Hall.
Merton, R. K. (1938). Social structure and anomie. American Sociological Review, 3(5), 672-682.
Sutherland, E. H. (1947). Principles of criminology. J.B. Lippincott Company.