Final answer:
Deviance is broadly defined as the violation of social norms and is not necessarily illegal or bad. It can provoke social change, and its perception can vary greatly based on context and culture. Social norms are enforced through formal and informal sanctions, and deviance can arise from different societal influences, according to various sociological theories.
Step-by-step explanation:
Definition of Deviance
In broad terms, deviance can be defined as a violation of social norms. This encompasses a wide range of behaviors that may differ in severity, from minor infractions like picking your nose in public to serious crimes such as murder. Deviance is contextually and culturally determined and is not always synonymous with criminality or bad behavior. For instance, a behavior that is considered deviant in one culture may be seen as normal in another.
While all crimes are considered forms of deviance, not all deviant acts are criminal. Sociologists view deviance as a necessary component of social order, as it can provoke change by highlighting injustices or rigidities within the social system. Deviance is assessed based on contextual definitions, situations, and people's responses to the behavior in question. Social control mechanisms, such as formal sanctions and informal sanctions, are used to limit deviance and reinforce social norms.
According to sociological theories, deviance and crime can stem from various sources. For example, differential association theory suggests that people learn deviant behaviors from those close to them. Conversely, labeling theory indicates that deviance is ascribed to individuals by the reactions and labels of others. The perspective on deviance can rapidly change based on current societal standards and norms.