Final answer:
Deviance is the failure to conform to social norms and encompasses actions that violate societal expectations, which may or may not be considered criminal. Sociologists study deviance to understand social order, control, and the role such actions play in challenging and changing norms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The failure to conform to social norms is known as deviance. This concept is crucial in sociology, as it reflects violations of societal expectations, which can span from minor breaches of etiquette to serious infractions that could also be classified as crimes. Sociologists understand deviance as an action or behavior that doesn't follow the norms set by a society or community and is contextual, depending on the situation and cultural standards.
While deviance can be as simple as a social faux pas, it can also involve more serious acts that defy legal codes and are subject to formal sanctions. Not all deviant acts are considered criminal; some may even contribute to societal change by challenging existing norms, as highlighted by sociological theories such as differential association theory and labeling theory. Understanding deviance also includes recognizing the role of informal sanctions, which occur in social interactions and help enforce societal norms.
Overall, sociologists see deviance as a complex phenomenon that reflects the intricacies of social order and control. It is not just about failure or wrongdoing but can also serve as an indicator of cultural norms and the boundaries of acceptable behavior in society.