Final answer:
Acts of cruelty and bullying are not isolated behaviors but often stem from deeper issues or environmental influences, as seen in both children and adults. Experiencing or witnessing age-based prejudice highlights the insidious nature of discrimination. Moreover, responding to deviance with informal sanctions can sustain societal norms but might also contribute to negative outcomes.
Step-by-step explanation:
In reflecting upon acts of cruelty or mean behavior towards others, it is essential to recognize not only the actions but the underlying reasons for such behavior. Having witnessed an instance where a child was bullying others, it was clear that the abuse was not merely physical but emotional as well. The bully's actions stemmed from a desire for dominance and perhaps mimicked adverse conditions in their environment. In an adult context, an abrasive and verbally hurtful character could be someone like the historical figure Mr. Severe, who took pleasure in manifesting fiendish behavior through whipping and profanity, demonstrating the extremeness of cruelty.
On the other end of the spectrum, I have known individuals who faced age-based prejudice or discrimination, such as an older person denied a job opportunity simply for being considered too old. This form of discrimination is especially harmful as it demeans the individual's experience and capabilities based on age alone. Lastly, when considering acts of deviance, negative sanctions used informally can stem from a reactiveness to preserve social norms, but may inadvertently contribute to further alienating the individual from society. Reflecting on such behaviors offers an opportunity for learning and growth, by understanding the impact of actions guided by bias or a misguided sense of order.