Final answer:
Deviance is a violation of cultural norms and is relative to societal context. Sociological explanations for deviance range from it being a necessary social function to being a result of social inequality. The definition of deviance changes depending on social perspectives, time, and culture.
Step-by-step explanation:
The social foundations of deviance suggest that deviance is defined in relation to cultural norms. The correct answer to the student's question is, therefore, 'a. deviance exists only in relation to cultural norms'. This is because deviance is a violation of social norms, and what is considered deviant is dependent on the context and society's current values.
From a sociological perspective, theorists provide different explanations for the motivation behind deviance. For example, functionalists believe that deviance serves a purpose in society by reinforcing norms and prompting social change. Symbolic interactionists focus on the labels associated with deviance, which are constructed through social interactions. Conflict theorists, on the other hand, view deviance as resulting from social inequality. These perspectives help explain why deviance occurs and how it affects a society.
It's important to note that deviance is a relative concept and varies across different societies and cultures. What is deviant in one context may be acceptable in another, and societal views on deviance can change over time.