Deviance and Counterculture (Lecture)

Questions and Answers

What is the primary focus of the study of deviance in sociology?

To explore genetic factors influencing behavior

To examine how cultural norms influence individual actions (correct)

To understand economic systems and their effect on crime

To analyze historical trends in social behavior

Which of the following best describes the concept of subculture?

A society that promotes extreme individualism

A collection of unrelated individuals forming temporary alliances

A group that completely rejects all societal norms

A group that exists alongside the mainstream society without challenging it (correct)

How does the content describe deviance in relation to societal norms?

Deviance occurs primarily when individuals desire acceptance from the mainstream

Deviance represents behavior that varies from societal expectations (correct)

Deviance is seen as strictly genetic and not influenced by social factors

Deviance is considered a rare phenomenon within social groups

What role do cultural and social influences play in deviance, according to the content?

They create a context within which deviance can be understood Signup and view all the answers

What is a key reason mentioned for why individuals might act differently from societal expectations?

Unintentional consequences of socialization Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately reflects the relationship between deviance and culture?

Deviance is a natural part of any culture's diversity Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential outcome of individuals being social creatures within a culture?

The emergence of diverse subcultures Signup and view all the answers

What relationship does the content suggest between deviance and acceptance in society?

Deviance is sometimes a strategy to gain acceptance Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of subcultures in a consumer capitalist society?

They adopt different styles but do not challenge mainstream culture. Signup and view all the answers

How do advertisements influence individual choices according to the text?

They manipulate consumers to conform under the guise of individuality. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes counterculture from subculture?

Counterculture challenges the mainstream society. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following groups is identified as an example of counterculture?

Hippies from the 1960s Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception about individual expression within consumer capitalist societies?

These expressions represent genuine individual identity. Signup and view all the answers

How does the notion of individuality connect to consumerism?

Perceived individuality is often shaped by market demands and consumer trends. Signup and view all the answers

What role do subcultures play in a capitalist society according to the content?

They largely facilitate the needs of capitalists by fostering new consumer demands. Signup and view all the answers

What theoretical perspective did the Frankfurt School hold regarding individual perception in Western culture?

People believe they are free thinkers but largely follow capitalist interests. Signup and view all the answers

What example is provided as a counterculture that deviates from mainstream values?

Anarchist movements advocating against structured authority Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary goal of an anarchist movement?

To promote radical democracy and egalitarianism Signup and view all the answers

What was a key characteristic of the hippie movement of the 1960s and 1970s?

Promotion of peace, love, and communal values Signup and view all the answers

How did the hippie generation contradict their own values?

By spending more on consumer goods than any previous generation Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'girl power' primarily represent?

Empowerment and equality for women Signup and view all the answers

What is one critique of the Spice Girls' 'girl power' message?

It was purely a marketing ploy and lacked genuine activism Signup and view all the answers

What commonality exists between anarchism and the punk movement?

Both originated in opposition to societal norms Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'co-opted' imply in the context of subcultures?

The appropriation of a movement's ideas by mainstream culture Signup and view all the answers

What is a notable challenge in defining countercultures?

Their boundaries often blur with subcultures Signup and view all the answers

What is the central critique of consumer culture noted in the hippie movement?

It emphasizes competitive consumption and materialism Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following movements sought to challenge corporate influence in democracy?

The Occupy Wall Street movement Signup and view all the answers

What concept is described as ways of thinking and acting that are subject to social control?

Deviance Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by social control in the context provided?

Ways social groups show disapproval of behaviors Signup and view all the answers

How does the content critique the portrayal of the Spice Girls?

They sell a lifestyle that encourages self-objectification. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does the presentation of Wonder Woman illustrate a contradiction?

She embodies feminism but is also sexualized. Signup and view all the answers

What might indicate that a behavior is considered deviant in a particular culture?

Negative reactions from others within the culture. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a critique of promoting products through female music groups?

It often relies on superficial values and consumerism. Signup and view all the answers

What example is used to illustrate the concept of deviance?

A man wearing a dress in a culture that disapproves of it. Signup and view all the answers

Why might the portrayal of female characters be problematic in media?

It sometimes promotes unrealistic beauty standards. Signup and view all the answers

What is the underlying theme related to the representation of women in popular culture?

Women’s empowerment is often commodified. Signup and view all the answers

How does the discussion view the concept of 'girl power' as marketed by groups like the Spice Girls?

As a superficial marketing scheme focused on consumerism. Signup and view all the answers

What does strain theory suggest is the cause of deviance?

Unattainable cultural goals Signup and view all the answers

According to Merton's strain theory, which group is most associated with deviant behavior?

Marginalized economic classes Signup and view all the answers

In the context of strain theory, what is meant by 'anomie'?

Normlessness or lack of purpose Signup and view all the answers

What cultural goal is presented as an example in the discussion of strain theory?

Owning a house and a car Signup and view all the answers

What aspect does control theory focus on in relation to deviant behavior?

Societal regulation and constraints Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a means to achieve cultural goals according to the content?

Maintaining social connections Signup and view all the answers

How does Merton's theory relate poverty to deviance?

It connects poverty to increased strain Signup and view all the answers

In discussing cultural goals, what is indicated as a common expectation in Western consumer culture?

Building a family and purchasing a home Signup and view all the answers

What is the median income for two earners in a family, as described?

$70,000 Signup and view all the answers

What is a common response to socioeconomic strain in wealthier countries?

Conform to societal expectations Signup and view all the answers

What does strain theory say happens when there is a mismatch in goals and means?

Deviant behavior may emerge Signup and view all the answers

What trend regarding poverty is observed in Canada and the United States?

There are significant levels of working individuals in poverty Signup and view all the answers

What financial tool has become increasingly accessible since the 1970s?

Credit cards Signup and view all the answers

What is the culturally prescribed goal that individuals aspire to achieve?

Owning a house and a car Signup and view all the answers

How has personal credit card debt changed from 1975 to 2010?

It increased from near zero to almost $8,000 Signup and view all the answers

What cultural behavior leads individuals to incur debt for appearances?

Conforming to socially defined success Signup and view all the answers

How much money is typically needed to achieve the culturally prescribed lifestyle mentioned?

$87,000 Signup and view all the answers

What does Merton identify as a common response to strain?

Conformity Signup and view all the answers

What was a key factor in the 2008 market crash, according to the information?

High levels of debt among consumers Signup and view all the answers

What financial situation do individuals face when they earn an average income of $58,000?

They often fall short of societal expectations. Signup and view all the answers

What is often an unintended consequence of conforming to societal pressures?

Accumulation of debt Signup and view all the answers

Which demographic groups are most commonly identified as 'working poor'?

Individuals holding multiple jobs Signup and view all the answers

Which factor can contribute to an increase in strain experienced by individuals?

Discrimination in the workforce Signup and view all the answers

What negative emotional states are associated with strain as mentioned in the content?

Stress and depression Signup and view all the answers

Which financial behavior is highlighted as a response to feeling economically constrained?

Borrowing heavily to maintain appearance Signup and view all the answers

What critical economic event is mentioned in relation to pervasive debt issues?

2008 financial crisis Signup and view all the answers

What is one way individuals might respond to the strain of not being able to achieve societal goals?

Seeking illegal means to success Signup and view all the answers

What is a situation that could result in strain for children as mentioned in the content?

Moving away from their friends Signup and view all the answers

Strain theory suggests that the gap between means and goals often leads to what?

Feelings of strain and frustration Signup and view all the answers

What does an increase in minimum wage lead to in terms of strain among workers?

Little effect on the feeling of strain Signup and view all the answers

How does innovation differ from conformity in the context of achieving societal goals?

Innovation accepts societal goals but rejects traditional means. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes ritualism as a response to strain?

Giving up on societal goals while adhering to prescribed means. Signup and view all the answers

What does retreatism entail in the context of societal expectations?

Rejecting both the goals and the means prescribed by society. Signup and view all the answers

What motivates rebellion as a response to strain?

Frustration and a desire for societal change. Signup and view all the answers

Which example illustrates innovation in the pursuit of societal goals?

Breaking into homes to steal valuables. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does Greta Thunberg's activism represent rebellion?

She rejects the promise of success through conventional means due to climate concerns. Signup and view all the answers

What is a likely psychological state of an individual practicing ritualism?

Disillusioned and going through the motions of work. Signup and view all the answers

How does strain influence behavior in poorer segments of society?

It can prompt individuals to break laws as a logical response. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes retreatism from other responses to societal strain?

It entails completely withdrawing from both goals and means. Signup and view all the answers

What does the climate strike represent in the context of rebellion?

A rejection of mainstream societal expectations Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of cultural support theory in relation to deviance?

It suggests that deviance can be learned from influential figures. Signup and view all the answers

Why is strain theory less effective in explaining white-collar crime?

It doesn't account for societal pressures in high-stakes environments. Signup and view all the answers

How do societal expectations influence individual actions according to the content?

They provide a framework that individuals may redefine based on their experiences. Signup and view all the answers

What response might individuals have when faced with cultural strains?

Rebellion or innovative deviance Signup and view all the answers

In what way can cultural influences lead to deviant actions?

Through exposure to deviant role models. Signup and view all the answers

What might be a consequence of feeling societal rules do not apply to one's situation?

Adoption of illegal activities. Signup and view all the answers

What is the fundamental concept behind strain theory?

Individuals may resort to deviance when they can't achieve societal goals through legitimate means. Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between community role models and deviance as illustrated in the content?

Exposure to deviant community figures may normalize illegal behavior. Signup and view all the answers

How did events from the financial crisis in 2008 relate to issues of deviance?

They highlighted that wealthy individuals can also commit deviant acts under societal pressures. Signup and view all the answers

What does control theory primarily assume about human nature?

Humans are driven by greed and social pressures. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key reason discussed for why individuals may join cults?

They are searching for a sense of belonging and community. Signup and view all the answers

How does cultural support theory explain deviant behavior?

It indicates that cultural norms shape individual actions. Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean when control theory claims humans behave in a deviant way when not being observed?

They feel compelled to express their true desires. Signup and view all the answers

Why is control theory criticized for being simplistic?

It implies that all individuals are purely self-interested. Signup and view all the answers

What is a defining characteristic of a cult according to the content?

It is viewed by others as strange or sinister. Signup and view all the answers

What might a person who is perceived as being under strain typically seek from a cult?

Emotional support and connection. Signup and view all the answers

How does Freud's perspective relate to control theory's assumptions about human nature?

It argues that humans have primal urges that society restrains. Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect is often used to analyze the phenomenon of cult membership?

The concept of strain experienced by individuals. Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic of cults makes them attractive to potential members?

Cults provide a sense of belonging to a close-knit community. Signup and view all the answers

How do cults maintain their boundaries according to the discussion?

Through rigorous initiation processes and exclusivity. Signup and view all the answers

What role does the concept of 'Big Brother' play in a cult environment?

It creates a sense of paranoia against threats from the outside. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception about how individuals join cults?

Individuals are actively lured in by enticing offers. Signup and view all the answers

What effect does being part of a cult have on members' perception of the outside world?

It fosters a belief that the outside world is corrupt and dangerous. Signup and view all the answers

What term is used to describe the protective barrier that cults create between their members and the outside world?

Firewall Signup and view all the answers

What feeling might cult members experience as a result of being considered 'in the know'?

A sense of superiority or status. Signup and view all the answers

What process do cults typically use to determine potential new members?

An initiation ritual to test readiness. Signup and view all the answers

How do cults typically perceive their followers in contrast to outsiders?

Followers are considered privileged with knowledge. Signup and view all the answers

What statement reflects the relationship between cults and their members?

Members depend on one another for emotional support and validation. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the main issues with defining deviance through illustration?

It requires subjective value judgments. Signup and view all the answers

Why might labeling mentally ill individuals as deviant be problematic?

It reinforces negative stereotypes and can lead to discrimination. Signup and view all the answers

How does the statistical definition of deviance present challenges?

Not all uncommon behaviors are harmful or deviant. Signup and view all the answers

What example illustrates a potential confusion between deviance and difference?

A blonde, blue-eyed man living in a Chinese rural village. Signup and view all the answers

What is one major limitation of defining deviance by law?

Laws can change and vary significantly across societies. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common viewpoint among sociologists when defining deviance?

Deviance must be analyzed in the context of society's norms. Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred about chronic lying from the perspective on deviance provided?

The classification of chronic lying as deviant is subjective. Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of deviance that sociologists might focus on?

It is dependent on the reactions of society. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential issue when defining deviance solely by statistical rarity?

Rarity does not imply a moral judgment. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a method mentioned for defining deviance?

By cultural tradition. Signup and view all the answers

How is deviance primarily defined in the discussion?

As actions subject to social control. Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential issue with defining deviance solely as harmful behavior?

It may label non-harmful behaviors as deviant. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following groups has been labeled as deviant in society but is now recognized as non-harmful?

Transgendered individuals. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of deviance does the discussion highlight as often overlooked?

The societal fear associated with certain individuals. Signup and view all the answers

What is stated about societal responses to deviant labeling?

Labeling can cause harm to those considered deviant. Signup and view all the answers

What key elements are mentioned as causes for deviance?

Biological and social influences. Signup and view all the answers

What is implied about how society views differences in behavior?

Society prefers conformity over differences unless differences are prestigious. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by 'social control' in the context of deviance?

The ways society helps its members conform. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following did the discussion suggest might contribute to a person becoming deviant?

Social strain or expectations. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of societal behavior towards deviance is considered a potential area needing change?

The discrimination faced by labeled groups. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Deviance and Counterculture

Deviance and counterculture are significant topics in sociology, closely linked to criminology.
Social creatures create and engage with culture, but this raises questions about individual differences within society.
Deviance involves behaviors that deviate from societal norms, exploring reasons for such differences.

Concepts of Subculture

A subculture constitutes a group that does not challenge mainstream society, existing within it while expressing different styles or preferences.
Examples of subcultures include hipsters, goths, and emos, who often demonstrate discernible differences in appearance and behavior.
Subcultures maintain a connection to mass consumerism by promoting new consumer goods through distinct styles (e.g., dyed hair, tattoos).

Distinction Between Subculture and Counterculture

Counterculture challenges mainstream societal norms and ideologies.
Examples of counterculture movements include:
- Hippie Movement: Promoted collectivism and criticized consumerism, yet many participants still engaged in high levels of consumer spending later in life.
- Neo-Nazi Groups: Counterculture that opposes prevailing norms of inclusivity and anti-racism.
- Anarchist Movements: Advocate for radical democracy and egalitarianism, opposing hierarchical structures in society.
- Occupy Wall Street Movement: Challenged corporate dominance over democracy.

Blurring Boundaries: Subculture vs. Counterculture

Some groups may appear countercultural while primarily functioning as subcultures that reinforce consumer capitalism.
The Spice Girls exemplify a commercialized take on empowerment, often critiqued for encouraging objectification rather than true feminist ideals.

Understanding Deviance

Deviance is defined sociologically as behaviors subject to social control—reflecting societal reactions to behavior rather than merely statistical rarity or moral judgment.
Social Control: Refers to the means by which society enforces norms through disapproval and marginalization of deviant individuals.
Example of social control: A man wearing a dress may be deemed deviant based on societal responses, such as laughter or insults.

Defining Deviance

Definitions of deviance can vary:
- Illustrative Definition: Identifies groups labeled as deviant, but relies on subjective moral judgments.
- Statistical Definition: Considers behaviors that are statistically rare as deviant, but does not account for context or acceptance.
- Harm-Based Definition: Centered on harmful behaviors (e.g., murder, rape), neglects the harm caused by labeling non-harmful behaviors as deviant.

The Impact of Labeling

Groups labeled as deviant often face societal discrimination despite non-harmful intentions or behaviors.
Historical prejudice against marginalized groups (e.g., LGBTQ+ individuals) exemplifies how labeling causes societal harm.
Study of deviance should also focus on societal fears and the implications of labeling individuals as deviant, emphasizing the need for changing harmful perceptions.### Understanding Deviance
Deviance is defined as behaviors and actions subject to social control.
Important to study why societies label certain behaviors as deviant.
Factors contributing to deviance may be biological or social.

Theories Explaining Deviance

Strain Theory: Emerges when there’s a disconnect between cultural goals and the means to achieve them.
Merton's Anomie: Describes a state of normlessness leading to confusion about right and wrong.
Response to strain can manifest in various behavioral outcomes.

Strain Theory Details

Cultural goals in Western societies often include owning a home, cars, and having a family.
Achieving these goals typically requires hard work and education.
Deviance occurs when individuals cannot attain these goals despite working hard.

Economic Context

Average yearly costs for a typical lifestyle can reach 87,000,whilemedianincomeinTorontoisabout87,000, while median income in Toronto is about 87,000,whilemedianincomeinTorontoisabout40,000.
Economic strain is felt more significantly in marginalized classes, leading to increased deviance.

Responses to Strain

Conformity: Accepting societal goals and means, often resulting in financial struggles like debt accumulation.
Innovation: Embracing societal goals but rejecting traditional means, leading to illegal activities such as drug dealing or theft.
Ritualism: Acceptance of means but abandonment of societal goals, becoming disengaged while still conforming to routines.
Retreatism: Escaping societal pressures through alternative lifestyles, often involving substance abuse.
Rebellion: Rejecting established societal norms and advocating for change, as seen with movements like climate activism.

Cultural Support Theory

Norms learned through communication and socialization reinforce deviant behaviors.
Individuals may adopt deviant practices by associating with those who successfully navigate illegal avenues for economic gain.

Illustrative Examples

Market crash of 2008 highlighted systemic issues with debt and societal pressures to conform despite economic realities.
Notable figures like Greta Thunberg exemplify rebellion against societal expectations, prioritizing environmental advocacy over traditional paths to success.### Theories of Deviance
Cultural Support Theory suggests individuals rationalize rules do not apply to them due to personal experiences, often related to discrimination.
Strain Theory struggles to explain white-collar crime as wealthy individuals already possess economic goals, complicating their criminal motivations.
White-collar crime can arise from a cultural environment that promotes self-interest over legality, especially in high-pressure situations like the 2008 financial crisis.
Control Theory posits humans are inherently inclined towards greed and deviancy but are restrained by societal surveillance and group norms.
Freud's view of human nature is challenged; while he argued people are base creatures primarily driven by desires like sex and pleasure, modern sociology suggests altruism and a desire for social belonging are also significant.

Understanding Cults

Cults are defined as small groups with unconventional beliefs viewed as strange or sinister by society.
Joining a cult often appeals to individuals experiencing strain or life challenges, creating attraction despite societal stigma.
People are not typically invited into cults; rather, they must earn their place, making the cult more appealing due to its exclusivity.
Cults create a sense of passionate solidarity among members, fostering a close-knit community that is protective of its members from outside influences.

Characteristics of Cults

A clear boundary separates insiders from outsiders, fostering loyalty and dependence within the group.
Cults establish a "firewall" to maintain secrecy, only allowing committed individuals to access core knowledge, enhancing a sense of special status among members.
Members often perceive the outside world as corrupt and hostile, reinforcing their loyalty to the cult.
Communication is heavily controlled; insiders have privileged information while outsiders are kept in the dark, fueling distrust.
Initiation processes are common, often targeting individuals undergoing significant life changes, making them more susceptible to cult influence.

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Description

Explore the concepts of deviance and counterculture within sociology and criminology. This quiz delves into how societal norms influence behavior and the role of individuals in shaping culture. Understand the impact of social constructs on diversity and difference in communities.