Management of Deviance: Secrets, Rationalization, Change Strategies, and Subcultures

12 Questions

What is the primary purpose of using secrets to conceal deviant behaviors?

To avoid facing immediate consequences for unacceptable practices

Which of the following is an example of how people may use rationalization to justify their deviant actions?

Comparing their behavior to others who engage in the same activity

Which of the following is a potential consequence of individuals or organizations keeping secrets to conceal deviant behaviors?

Exposure and facing consequences such as loss of reputation or legal action

Which of the following strategies for managing deviance involves individuals or organizations changing their behavior to align with societal norms?

Changing to non-deviance

How do deviant subcultures contribute to the management of deviance?

They provide a supportive environment for individuals to engage in deviant behaviors without consequence

Which of the following is NOT a common rationalization used by individuals to justify their deviant actions?

Acknowledging the unacceptability of their deviant behavior and accepting the consequences

Which of the following is NOT a technique used for rationalizing deviant behavior?

Accountability

What is the primary goal of changing deviant behavior to non-deviant behavior?

To help individuals understand and modify their behavior

Which of the following is NOT a strategy for managing deviance in deviant subcultures?

Encouragement

What is the primary challenge in managing deviance within deviant subcultures?

Individuals within these subcultures often see their behaviors as acceptable

Which of the following is a technique used to encourage change from deviant to non-deviant behavior?

Positive reinforcement

What is the purpose of secrecy in the context of deviant behavior?

To protect individuals from punishment

Study Notes

Management of Deviance: Secrecy, Rationalization, Change to Non-Deviance, and Deviant Subcultures

Deviance is behavior that falls outside socially acceptable norms. While some deviation from societal expectations can lead to minor consequences, others may result in significant negative impacts. As such, managing deviance becomes crucial to prevent further harm and maintain social order. In this context, we will explore how secrets, rationalization, changes to non-deviance, and deviant subcultures play a role in the management of deviance.

Secrets

Secrets are often used to conceal deviant behaviors. These hidden aspects may involve illegal activities like drug trafficking or fraud, or more subtle issues like sexual misconduct or personal dishonesty. When individuals or organizations keep secrets, they risk being exposed and facing consequences such as loss of reputation or legal action. However, secrets can also serve as survival mechanisms for those who engage in deviant behaviors, allowing them to carry out unacceptable practices without immediate repercussions.

Rationalization

Rationalization refers to the process of making deviant behaviors seem acceptable by justifying them with logic. People may use various rationalizations to justify their deviant actions, such as:

Comparisons: Individuals may compare themselves to others who engage in the same behavior, making it seem less deviant.
Minimization: Deviant actions may be downplayed, making them seem less significant.
Denial: People may deny that their behavior is deviant, refusing to acknowledge its negative impact.
Victimization: Individuals may claim that they are victims of circumstances, making their behavior a necessary response.

Change to Non-Deviance

Changing deviant behavior to acceptable behavior is a crucial aspect of managing deviance. This can be accomplished through various means, such as:

Education: Providing information about the negative consequences of deviant behaviors can encourage people to change their actions.
Punishment: Imposing penalties or negative outcomes for deviant behavior can deter individuals from engaging in such activities.
Rehabilitation: Offering support and resources to help people modify their behavior can lead to long-term change.
Positive reinforcement: Praising and rewarding individuals for engaging in desirable behaviors can encourage them to continue these practices.

Deviant Subcultures

Deviant subcultures are groups of people who engage in behaviors that are considered deviant by society. Examples of deviant subcultures include gangs, drug users, and people who engage in extreme sports that are seen as dangerous by society. These subcultures often have their own norms and values, which may be at odds with societal expectations.

Management of deviance in deviant subcultures can be challenging, as individuals within these groups often see their behaviors as acceptable. Strategies for managing deviance in these contexts may include:

Education: Providing information about the negative consequences of deviant behaviors can help individuals within these subcultures understand why their actions are considered deviant.
Intervention: Direct intervention, such as counseling or rehabilitation programs, can help individuals within these subcultures change their behavior.
Prevention: Implementing policies and programs that discourage deviant behavior can help prevent individuals from engaging in such practices.
Social support: Providing social support to individuals within these subcultures can help them develop alternative coping mechanisms and make positive changes in their lives.

In conclusion, managing deviance requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the various factors that contribute to deviant behavior, including secrecy, rationalization, change to non-deviance, and deviant subcultures. By understanding these aspects and implementing appropriate strategies, it is possible to maintain social order and reduce the negative impact of deviance on individuals and society.