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Merton describes deviant behavior by placing it into two categories: nonconformist or aberrant behavior. The nonconformist legitimizes his/her disinterested deviance in terms of higher values and publicly challenges norms and practices he/she sees morally suspect. Aberrant behavior deviates out of expediency and for the momentary gratification of personal ends, without seeking social change.

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1d ago

Merton's strain theory proposes that individuals engage in deviant behavior when they experience a disconnect between societal goals (like success) and the legitimate means to achieve those goals. For example, someone who lacks the means to achieve financial success through education and hard work may turn to deviant activities like theft to attain material wealth instead. This theory highlights how social structures can influence an individual's likelihood of engaging in deviant behavior.

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Q: How does Merton's strain theory explain deviant behavior Give specific examples?
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How are deviance and crime related?

Deviance refers to behavior that violates societal norms, while crime specifically refers to behavior that violates laws. Some deviant behavior is criminal, but not all deviance is criminal. Both deviance and crime challenge social norms and can lead to societal consequences such as stigma or legal punishment.


Which theorist is associated with strain theory?

Robert K. Merton is the theorist associated with strain theory. He developed the concept in the 1930s to explain how societal structures and expectations can lead individuals to engage in deviant behavior.


Deviance can BEST be defined as any?

Deviance can be best defined as behavior that strays from social norms and expectations within a given culture or society. This behavior is often considered inappropriate or unacceptable by the majority of the population.


Criminal behavior as a learned behavior rather than genetic inheritance?

Criminal behavior as a learned behavior suggests that individuals acquire deviant behaviors through interactions and experiences in their environment, such as upbringing, social influences, and exposure to criminal role models. This perspective highlights the importance of socialization and environmental factors in shaping behavior, rather than genetic predispositions. It emphasizes the role of society in preventing and addressing criminal behavior through intervention programs and support systems.


What is Hirschi's control theory?

Hirschi's control theory argues that individuals with strong social bonds are less likely to engage in deviant behavior. These social bonds include attachment to others, commitment to conformity, involvement in conventional activities, and belief in the moral validity of social norms. Stronger bonds lead to increased self-control and less likelihood of deviance.

Related questions

Why deviant behavior is relative?

Deviant behavior is considered relative because it is defined in relation to a specific culture, society, or group's norms and values. What is considered deviant in one context may not be seen as deviant in another. This relativity highlights the importance of understanding the cultural and societal influences on definitions of deviant behavior.


Filipino deviant behavior?

Some examples of deviant behavior in Filipino society may include corruption in government, illegal drug trafficking, and violence or abuse in relationships or communities. These behaviors deviate from accepted social norms and values, and can have harmful effects on individuals and society as a whole.


When does a deviant act become a crime?

when someone breaks the law.


Is riot a form of deviant behavior?

Yes . Depends how you define 'deviant'. Some cultures use 'deviant' only for sexual deviance.


Does deviant behavior serve a purpose in your society?

Deviant behavior can serve various purposes in society, such as challenging norms, sparking social change, or highlighting inequalities. However, persistent or harmful deviant behavior may lead to social disruption and negative consequences. Ultimately, the role of deviant behavior in society depends on the context and how it is perceived and addressed by individuals and institutions.


What is the oldest explanation for deviant behavior?

demonology


What are examples of deviance behavior?

Examples of deviant behavior can include illegal activities like theft or drug use, as well as behaviors that go against societal norms such as vandalism or public nudity. Other examples can be actions that challenge authority, such as political protests or civil disobedience.


What answer best describes mores?

the serious prohibitions against deviant behavior in a society that result in severe punishment


What has the author Andrew J Pavlos written?

Andrew J Pavlos has written: 'Social psychology and the study of deviant behavior' -- subject(s): Deviant behavior, Social psychology


What are the factors affecting deviant behavior?

Deviant behavior is often a cry for attention. This is not a good way to seek attention, because it only gets you negative attention, and it can also get you into trouble.


Deviant social behavior is best explained by changes in the society's value system and not failures of primary agent of socialization?

Deviant social behavior can result from a combination of factors, including changes in the society's value system and failures of primary agents of socialization, such as family and schools. While societal values play a significant role in shaping behavior, individual experiences and relationships within primary socialization agents can also influence the development of deviant behaviors. It's important to consider multiple factors when seeking to understand and address deviant social behavior.


What has the author Gregory Richard Staats written?

Gregory Richard Staats has written: 'Stereotypes and their importance for labeling deviant behavior' -- subject(s): Deviant behavior, Stereotypes (Social psychology)