WPS Presentation Slide Show Lesson 1 Introduction to Social Deviance

Summary

This video discusses the concept of social deviance, explaining how deviance refers to behaviors that violate societal norms, which vary across cultures and contexts. It covers different types of norms, such as folkways, mores, and laws, and explores the characteristics of deviance, including the subjective nature of labeling deviant behaviors. The script also highlights examples, such as those from popular media like Squid Game, and discusses social control mechanisms, including sanctions, norms, and stigmas. The video delves into both objectivist and subjectivist perspectives on deviance, providing a comprehensive introduction to the topic in social work.

Takeaways

• 😀 Deviance refers to any behavior, belief, or condition that violates social norms or expectations within a society.
• 😀 Social norms are established rules that guide behavior, with some being informal (like traditions) and others formal (like laws).
• 😀 Deviance can be defined differently across cultures; what’s considered deviant in one society may be normal in another.
• 😀 Deviance is not just about the act itself but also the response and labeling by society or a social group.
• 😀 Folkways are everyday norms that, when violated, lead to mild disapproval or reprimands, like chewing loudly or using inappropriate language.
• 😀 Mores are norms tied to morality and generate stronger outrage when broken, such as cohabitation before marriage in certain cultures.
• 😀 Laws are formalized norms with official consequences, such as incarceration, for violating them (e.g., crimes).
• 😀 Deviance is often perceived differently based on social status; lower-status individuals are more likely to be labeled as deviant.
• 😀 Social control refers to the enforcement of societal norms to maintain order, which can include both formal (laws) and informal (social interactions) sanctions.
• 😀 Deviance can be classified into three categories: odd behavior (eccentric), admired behavior (heroism), and bad behavior (criminal acts).
• 😀 There are two main perspectives on deviance: objectivist (deviance is inherent in violating norms) and subjectivist (deviance is socially labeled and varies by context).

Q & A

What is the definition of social deviance?

Social deviance refers to behaviors or actions that violate the norms and expectations established by society. It includes anything that deviates from what is generally accepted as normal behavior in a given social context.

How do social norms influence deviance?

Social norms are the established rules that guide behavior. When these norms are violated, the behavior is labeled as deviant. The perception of deviance depends on the social context, and different societies may have varying norms.

What is the difference between folkways, mores, and laws?

Folkways are informal norms that do not generate strong reactions when violated, like basic courtesies. Mores are moral norms that carry stronger reactions when violated, as they are linked to values about right and wrong. Laws are formal norms backed by official sanctions, and violations of laws are considered the most serious forms of deviance.

Can deviance be perceived differently in different cultures?

Yes, deviance is culturally relative. What is considered deviant in one culture may be seen as normal in another. For example, sleeping during work hours is deviant in the Philippines but is acceptable in Japan as a sign of hard work.

What is the role of social control in society?

Social control refers to the mechanisms that enforce societal norms to ensure conformity. It helps maintain social order by encouraging people to follow established rules and sanctions for those who violate them.

What are the types of social sanctions?

Social sanctions are consequences for adhering to or violating norms. Positive sanctions reward conformity (e.g., praise or rewards), while negative sanctions punish deviations (e.g., reprimands or legal consequences). These sanctions can be formal (imposed by authorities) or informal (enforced by social groups).

What is the difference between formal and informal sanctions?

Formal sanctions are official penalties imposed by institutions or authorities, such as fines or incarceration. Informal sanctions, on the other hand, are unofficial social reactions, such as disapproving looks or verbal reprimands from peers.

How does the concept of 'social cohesion' relate to deviance?

Social cohesion refers to the extent to which members of a society are integrated and share common values. Strong social cohesion helps prevent deviance because individuals are more likely to follow norms when they are united and committed to shared beliefs.

What are the perspectives on deviance, and how do they differ?

The objectivist perspective views deviance as any action that violates established norms. The subjectivist perspective, however, argues that deviance is a socially constructed concept, dependent on how powerful groups label certain behaviors as deviant.

How does the concept of 'stigma' impact individuals?

Stigma refers to negative attitudes or discrimination directed at individuals based on distinguishing characteristics, such as mental illness. Those who are stigmatized are often marginalized or labeled in negative ways, which can affect their social integration and self-image.