Final answer:
The functionalist perspective views deviance as an essential part of society, serving roles in challenging existing norms and reinforcing social values.
Step-by-step explanation:
The functionalist perspective views deviance as an essential part of society rather than an unnatural one. According to Émile Durkheim, deviance serves important functions in society by challenging existing norms and reinforcing social values. For example, when protesters engage in acts of deviance, such as sit-ins during the civil rights movement, they challenge society's notions of segregation and promote social change. Additionally, punishment for deviant behavior reaffirms currently held social norms. Therefore, the statement that the functionalist perspective views deviance as an unnatural part of society is false.