Final answer:
Deviance in sports is behavior that violates the established norms within the game context or sports culture, and its relationship with crime is complex. Behaviors considered deviant can depend on cultural and situational factors, as well as social perceptions that are influenced by key role models within a team.
Step-by-step explanation:
Deviance in sports can be understood as behaviors that violate the established norms within the context of the game or the culture around the sport. Considering the concept of deviance as a violation of contextual, cultural, or social norms, one can see that what is deemed deviant can vary widely based on circumstances and social perceptions.
In the realm of sports, such behaviors might include cheating, unsportsmanlike conduct, or actions that go against the spirit of the game. The relationship between deviance and crime is complex, as not all deviant actions are criminal, and not all crimes are viewed by society as deviant.
For example, an athlete might execute a play that is technically within the rules but is seen as unsportsmanlike or deviant by fans and other players. Conversely, activities such as gambling may be criminalized in certain contexts despite being socially acceptable under different conditions.
The differential association theory suggests that individuals learn deviant behavior from those close to them who provide models and opportunities for deviance. Therefore, the culture within a sports team and the behaviors of key role models, such as coaches and star players, can influence what is considered acceptable or deviant behavior on the field.
Informal sanctions, like social disapproval or being called out by teammates, and formal sanctions, such as penalties or suspensions, serve to regulate these behaviors.
Ultimately, sociologists study deviance and crime to understand how these behaviors are shaped by and affect society. This includes examining differences across cultures and how societal changes, such as the legal acceptance of certain behaviors, influence perceptions of deviance and crime in sports and beyond.