Exam 2: Explaining Deviance: The Act

According to social learning theory, all behaviour is due, in part, to differential association.

The concept of self-control is central to the explanation of deviance found in Hirschi's social bonds theory.

Which theories are the most concerned with the maintenance of the social order?

Consider the example of marijuana use. Compare and contrast the types of explanations of this behaviour that might emerge from social learning theory and neutralization theory.

Which of the following types of theories are utilized in the study of deviance?

In the social sciences multiple theories exist simultaneously.

Which theory of deviance emphasizes self-control?

In Robert Merton's anomie and strain theories, "deinstitutionalization of the means" refers to cases where society's emphasis on the legitimate means is greater than its emphasis on the institutionalized goals.

Despite his best efforts, Chris has been unemployed for more than two years. He has finally decided that there is no point in pursuing the "American Dream" anymore. He stops looking for a job, and sits at home drinking beer all day long. Which mode of adaptation is he engaging in?

According to the general theory of crime, deviance is the result of learning within small groups.

Explain how Emile Durkheim would likely answer the question, "Why do people engage in deviance?"

Select the ONE positivist theory that you think best explains underage drinking. Use that theory to explain underage drinking, and clarify the reason why you think this is the best theory in this particular instance.

Positivist theorists attempt to understand deviant acts by looking to cause and effect relationships.

Social control theorists claim that deviant behaviour is inherently unattractive, so strong motives for deviance must be learned before deviant behaviour will occur.

In some communities in Russia today, there is a growing problem of substance abuse, due to

In an interview, one female exotic dancer states the following when asked about her career: "You should see the cops when they come in. They watch us dance for an hour or two before they bust anybody…there's usually a half dozen of 'em at a time. How many cops does it take to write a ticket for lewd dancing…?" Which technique of neutralization is she using?

Identify what positivist, interpretive, and critical theories each focus their analytical attention on.

Empirical research using the self-control theory has found that low levels of self-control are associated with

Which category of theory is most concerned with why people act in deviant ways?

Differential association theory maintains that the group interactions to which one is exposed have an impact on the learning of deviance. Explain the various types of group interactions, according to this theory.