2.2.4 Explanations of deviance and non-conformity

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following best describes the relationship between deviance and crime?

  • Deviance and crime are unrelated concepts.
  • Deviance is a subset of crime.
  • All deviant acts are crimes.
  • All crimes are deviant acts. (correct)

Cesare Lombroso's theories are still widely accepted by modern criminologists.

False (B)

Briefly explain how a structural sociological theory might explain crime rates in a society with high income inequality.

Structural sociological theories suggest that high income inequality creates frustration and tension, leading individuals to commit crimes as a result of limited opportunities and social pressures.

A key concept in interactionist sociological theories of deviance is _______, which refers to the process of certain groups being seen as criminal.

<p>labeling</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following theoretical perspectives with their primary focus:

<p>Biological Theories = Inherited physical traits and genetic defects Psychological Theories = Personality traits and childhood experiences Structural Sociological Theories = Social inequality and economic tensions Interactionist Sociological Theories = Social labeling and reactions to powerlessness</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT typically a focus of psychological theories of crime?

<p>Economic inequality (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, all forms of deviance are considered severe and harmful to society.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the interactionist perspective explain why some groups are more likely to be labeled as criminal?

<p>The interactionist perspective suggests that certain groups (e.g., youth, minorities) are more likely to be labeled as criminal due to societal biases and power dynamics, leading to differential treatment and increased surveillance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following aligns with a sociological explanation for deviance?

<p>Deviant behavior is a response to social inequality or labeling. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to psychological theories, inadequate parenting is an example of _______ that can contribute to criminal behavior.

<p>poor socialisation</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Deviance

Behavior that violates cultural or social norms; also called non-conformity.

Crime

Deviant behavior that breaks the law.

Cesare Lombroso's theory

Criminals had inherited physical traits (debunked).

Psychological Theories of Crime

Focus on personality traits and childhood experiences as causes of crime.

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Structural (Macro) Approach

Crime is a product of social inequality and economic tensions.

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Interactionist (Micro) Approach

Some groups are more likely to be seen as criminal.

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Sociological Approaches

Highlights structural inequality and social labeling as key factors in criminal behavior.

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Study Notes

  • Deviance is any behavior that violates cultural or social norms, also known as non-conformity.
  • Forms of non-conformity range from mild eccentricity and protest to severe crime and terrorism.
  • Crime is a form of deviant behavior that breaks the law.
  • Not all deviant acts are crimes, such as extreme fashion choices.

Explanations for Crime and Deviance

  • Biological theories are outdated and unsupported.
  • Cesare Lombroso claimed criminals inherited physical traits like skull shape.
  • Later biological theories suggested criminals possess genetic defects.
  • There is no strong evidence supporting biological determinism of crime.
  • Psychological theories focus on personality traits and childhood experiences.
  • Crime is linked to weak character, poor socialization, and low intelligence.
  • Sociological theories include structural and interactionist approaches.
  • The structural approach posits crime as a product of social inequality and economic tensions.
  • Inequality and oppression lead to frustration, resulting in deviance.
  • Interactionist approaches focus on labeling, where certain groups are more likely to be seen as criminal.
  • Crime could be a rational response to powerlessness.

Key Takeaways

  • Deviance challenges social order.
  • Deviance ranges from eccentricity to crime.
  • Psychological theories emphasize personality and upbringing.
  • Sociological approaches highlight structural inequality and social labeling as key factors in criminal behavior.

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