Final answer:
Primary deviance, as described by Edwin Lemert, is a passing violation of norms without long-term impact on one's self-concept or social interactions. It's distinct from secondary deviance, where societal labeling leads to a change in self-concept and further deviance. Primary deviance doesn't necessarily result in a lasting negative label and is often temporary.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Primary Deviance
According to sociologist Edwin Lemert, primary deviance refers to a violation of norms that does not result in any long-term effects on the individual's self-concept or their interactions with others. It is essentially a temporary episode of deviant behavior that is not integrated into the individual's identity. For instance, speeding may be considered deviant, but getting a ticket for it typically does not alter one's self-image or cause others to label the person negatively in a long-lasting way. Primary deviance is contrasted with secondary deviance, which occurs when a person's self-concept begins to align with the deviant behavior after society labels them as deviant, leading to further deviant behavior.
This phase of deviance plays a role in Edwin Lemert's broader discussion of labeling theory, which examines how the labels people are given can influence their behavior and identity. Primary deviance, in most cases, doesn't lead to a label that significantly changes an individual's behavior or how they see themselves. However, primary deviance can evolve into secondary deviance if societal reactions become more serious, leading individuals to embrace a deviant identity.