Final answer:
An example of a symbolic interactionist theory of deviance is c) Labeling theory focusing on societal reactions, which suggests that deviance is a result of societal labels rather than inherent in an individual's actions or a biological predisposition.
Step-by-step explanation:
Symbolic Interactionism and Deviance
An example of a symbolic interactionist theory of deviance is c) Labeling theory focusing on societal reactions. Labeling theory posits that what is considered deviant is not inherent in a behavior itself but is the result of the labels that society applies to certain behaviors and individuals. Once someone is labeled as deviant, they may begin to take on that identity, which can influence their future behavior. In contrast, biological predispositions (a) do not align with symbolic interactionism, which is rooted in social rather than biological factors. Strain theory (b) represents a functionalist perspective, emphasizing societal pressures and norms, while rational choice theory (d) is more aligned with economic models of individual decision-making.
Symbolic interactionism examines society through the day-to-day interactions of individuals and the meanings that those interactions convey.
This approach views deviance as a social construction, shaped by the interactions and interpretations of those within a society. It differs from other paradigms, like functionalism which sees deviance as a natural and necessary part of society, and conflict theory, which focuses on socioeconomic inequalities and power differentials as drivers of crime and deviance.