Final answer:
Deviance is the violation of social norms explained through competing sociological perspectives. Functionalists view it as a mechanism to reinforce norms, while conflict theorists see it as an outcome of social inequalities.
Step-by-step explanation:
Why does deviance occur? And how does it affect a society? These questions are explored through various theoretical perspectives in sociology. Deviance, which refers to the violation of social norms, is explained differently by the functionalist, symbolic interactionist, and conflict theoretical perspectives. Functionalists consider deviance to be a necessary part of a society that reinforces norms and drives social change, while conflict theorists see it as arising from social and economic inequalities within a society. Symbolic interactionists focus on the importance of labels and the meanings assigned to deviant behavior by society.
Deviance has different consequences for society depending on the perspective. Functionalist views suggest that it can lead to greater adherence to social norms and ultimately social cohesion by demonstrating the consequences of norm violations. Conflict theory, on the other hand, highlights the role of power and economic disparity in shaping what is considered deviant and who is labeled as such, often demonstrating how those in power can define deviance in ways that maintain their own positions.