Deck 3: Why is Certain Behavior Deviant?

Question 1

How does labeling theory explain deviance?

Answer 1

Labeling theory, which emerged from the sociological study of deviance in the 1960s and 1970s, explains deviance in terms of the social response to individuals rather than the individual behavior itself. The theory was significantly influenced by the work of sociologists such as Howard Becker and Edwin Lemert. It suggests that deviance is not an inherent quality of an act, but rather a result of the labels that society attaches to certain behaviors.

According to labeling theory, no behavior is intrinsically deviant on its own. Instead, deviance is created through the social process that defines certain actions as deviant. This process involves the following steps:

1. **Primary Deviance**: This is the initial act of rule-breaking. It may be insignificant and generally does not result in the individual being labeled as deviant, as it can be a one-time event or a minor infraction that is not socially visible or recognized.

2. **Social Labeling**: When an individual's actions are discovered and are deemed to be deviant by others, they may be labeled as such. This label is often based on stereotypes and societal expectations. For example, if a person is caught stealing, they may be labeled as a "thief."

3. **Secondary Deviance**: Once a person is labeled, they may begin to take on this label as part of their identity. This can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy where the individual conforms to the expectations of the deviant label. For instance, someone who has been labeled a thief may continue to engage in theft, even if the original act was situational or out of character.

4. **Stigmatization**: The labeled individual may face social stigma, which can lead to exclusion from normal social interaction. This can reinforce the deviant behavior, as the individual may find it difficult to engage in non-deviant roles due to the community's reaction.

5. **Deviant Career**: Over time, the individual may adopt a deviant career, where their identity and community are built around the deviant label. They may join subcultures or groups that support and reinforce the deviant behavior.

Labeling theory thus shifts the focus from the individual's act to the reaction of others to the act. It emphasizes the power of societal reaction in creating deviance. The theory also highlights the potential harm of labeling, as it can lead to marginalization and a cycle of deviance that is difficult to break. It suggests that interventions aimed at preventing deviance should focus on changing the social reactions to deviant behavior, providing supportive environments that do not reinforce deviant labels, and offering pathways for individuals to reintegrate into society without the burden of stigmatizing labels.

Question 2

What are the assumptions of conflict theories? Give examples of groups in conflict.

Answer 2

Conflict theories are based on the assumption that society is characterized by inequality and power struggles. These theories argue that social order is maintained through the use of power and coercion, and that conflict is a natural and inevitable part of social life.

One assumption of conflict theories is that there are dominant and subordinate groups in society, and that these groups are in constant conflict over resources, power, and status. For example, in the context of race relations, conflict theories would argue that there is a dominant racial group that holds power and privilege, and a subordinate racial group that is marginalized and oppressed. This dynamic creates ongoing conflict and tension between the two groups.

Another assumption is that social institutions, such as the government, the economy, and the education system, are used to maintain the power and privilege of dominant groups. For example, conflict theories would argue that the criminal justice system is used to control and oppress subordinate groups, such as people of color and the poor, through discriminatory policing and sentencing practices.

Examples of groups in conflict include labor unions and management in the workplace, where there is often tension and conflict over wages, working conditions, and job security. Another example is the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, which is rooted in historical and political power struggles over land and resources. These conflicts illustrate the assumptions of conflict theories, as they highlight the unequal distribution of power and resources, and the ongoing struggle for dominance and control.

Question 3

What role does authority play in conflict?

Answer 3

Authority plays a significant role in conflict, both in its genesis and its resolution. Here's how:

1. **Source of Conflict**: Authority can be a source of conflict when it is perceived as illegitimate, unfair, or abusive. When individuals or groups feel that those in power are misusing their authority or are not entitled to it, it can lead to resentment and conflict. For example, if employees believe that their manager is making decisions based on favoritism rather than merit, it may lead to conflict within the team.

2. **Conflict Escalation**: The way authority is exercised can escalate a conflict. If those in authority respond to a challenge with coercion or aggression, it can provoke a stronger opposition. Conversely, if authority is exercised with respect and consideration for all parties, it can help de-escalate tensions.

3. **Conflict Resolution**: Authority figures often play a key role in conflict resolution. They can set the tone for how conflicts are managed within an organization or community. Leaders with authority can enforce rules and policies that ensure conflicts are addressed constructively. They can also serve as mediators or arbitrators in disputes.

4. **Legitimacy and Power Dynamics**: The legitimacy of authority is crucial in conflict situations. If the parties involved in the conflict view the authority as legitimate, they are more likely to abide by the decisions made by those in power. However, if the authority is seen as biased or illegitimate, its decisions may be resisted, perpetuating the conflict.

5. **Structural Authority**: The structure of authority within an organization or society can either prevent or contribute to conflict. Hierarchical structures with clear lines of authority can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts over roles and responsibilities. However, they can also create power imbalances that lead to conflict if not managed well.

6. **Enforcement of Norms and Laws**: Authorities are responsible for enforcing norms, laws, and regulations that can prevent conflict by providing clear guidelines on acceptable behavior. When these are consistently and fairly enforced, they can reduce the likelihood of conflict. However, selective enforcement or the perception of injustice can lead to conflict.

7. **Change and Adaptation**: Authorities are often responsible for managing change within organizations or societies. How they manage change can either mitigate or exacerbate conflict. If change is imposed without consultation or consideration for those affected, it can lead to resistance and conflict.

In summary, authority has a multifaceted role in conflict. It can be a source of conflict when misused or perceived as illegitimate, but it is also essential for conflict resolution and the maintenance of order. Effective use of authority involves fair and consistent application of rules, open communication, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances while considering the needs and perspectives of all parties involved.

Question 4

According to a traditional viewpoint what is the operation of criminal law, the consequences of crime for society, and the etiology of crime? Compare to a radical approach.

Question 5

Deviance is a quality that lies in the behavior itself.

Question 6

According to Labeling theorists, societal reaction in the form of labeling or official typing, and consequent stigmatizing, leads to an altered identity in the actor, necessitation a reconstitution of the self.

Question 7

Whether a given act is deviant or not depends in part on the nature of the act and in part on what other people do about it.

Question 8

According to conflict perspectives, laws are not based upon the consensus of society, but upon the interests of the groups most able to influence the legal system.

Question 9

Thorsten Sellin's Culture Conflict Theory concerns the relationship between economic classes and crime.

Question 10

Richard Quinney says there is an American ruling class consisting of the owners and controllers of the means of production, plus those who benefit directly from the system, who have the power to manipulate the criminal justice system in the United States.

Question 11

According to Radical criminologists, the solution to the crime problem is a capitalist society.

Question 12

Deviant behavior can be defined as behavior subject to legal procedures aimed at curtailing the behavior. Such procedures may involve punishment, restoration of losses to victims, or involuntary hospitalization.

Question 13

This book employs the labeling perspective approach to explain the existence of both rule- making and rule breaking behavior.

Question 14

The authors argue that deviant responses are supported by the learning of traditions, rewards, and motives.

Question 15

According to Howard S. Becker, deviance is the result of efforts by persons who, perceiving a threat, act as _____________ to obtain appropriate legislation and enforcement to bring the behavior under control.

Question 16

George B. Vold, in his Group Conflict Theory, cites the following examples of attempts to control the very political and cultural destinies of all society or, at least, substantial portions of that society: __________________, management-union conflicts, union jurisdictional disputes and conflicts over racial segregation.

Question 17

Austin T. Turk presents a theory of criminalization based upon the concept of _________.

Question 18

Radical criminologists stress the importance of the ________ in defining what is deviant and the importance of class position in determining whether one's behavior will be defined as deviant.

Question 19

"Crime control" under capitalism is actually _________, according to Richard Quinney.

Question 20

Which is not an assumption of the labeling perspective?

A) Rule enforcement is situational
B) Rule enforcement is consistent
C) Rule-breaking is not necessarily deviant
D) Deviance is a function of social response

Question 21

The labeling perspective emphasizes:

A) the nature and consequences of rule-making and rule enforcement
B) the role of value consensus in deciding what is deviant
C) the importance of de-regulation
D) the importance of anomie in explaining deviance
E) the nature of how groups contribute to an individual's learning deviant norms

Question 22

When labeling theorists say that "society produces deviance," they are referring to:

A) social conditions such as poverty
B) the structural strain toward deviance
C) the creation of deviance by rule-making
D) the deviant subcultures into which people are born
E) c and d above

Question 23

The labeling perspective is most compatible with the view of society as:

A) being in consensus concerning the prohibition of certain behaviors
B) composed of competing interest groups
C) a social system
D) homogeneous
E) c and d above

Question 24

According to the labeling perspective, a crucial variable is defining deviance is:

A) the nature of the rule
B) the source of the rule
C) the source of enforcement
D) the response of the audience
E) the structural variations in society

Question 25

According to the labeling perspective, a person is labeled as deviant primarily as a consequence of:

A) her or his social characteristics
B) the degree to which he or she violates a norm
C) the type of norm which he or she violates
D) b and c
E) none of the above

Question 26

Primary deviance is norm violation:

A) stemming from subcultural contacts
B) which is more serious than secondary deviance
C) stemming from original causes
D) which is most likely to attract public attention
E) stemming from ignorance of norms

Question 27

Secondary deviance is:

A) repetitive primary deviance
B) less sanctioned than primary deviance
C) a response to societal reaction
D) of less consequence to general society
E) b and d above

Question 28

According to the labeling perspective, the final step in the deviant career sequence is:

A) involvement in an organized deviant group
B) dropping out or retreating from social interactions
C) societal reaction
D) a deviant self-image

Question 29

The gay liberation movement and the increasing militancy of the handicapped are examples of:

A) primary deviance
B) secondary deviance
C) tertiary deviance
D) quartile deviance
E) none of the above

Question 30

Which of the following is a criticism of the labelling perspective?

A) The perspective minimizes the importance of what causes primary deviance.
B) The perspective ignores the deviance of the powerful.
C) The perspective makes deviants appear too passive.
D) All of the above.
E) None of the above.

Question 31

"Culture conflict" is a concept most appropriate for situations involving:

A) immigration
B) class war
C) feelings of anomie
D) labeling
E) atavism

Question 32

Sellin's theory of "culture conflict" describes how conflicts in norms emerge from:

A) social pathologies
B) cultural growth
C) population declines
D) authoritarian politics
E) primary deviance

Question 33

George B. Vold's group conflict theory is most appropriate for understanding:

A) labor- management disputes
B) marital disputes
C) acquaintance murders
D) violence during athletic contests
E) impulsive crimes

Question 34

Austin T. Turk and Richard Quinney are contemporary conflict theorists. Turk tends to be pluralistic in his approach; Quinney is radical. The difference between the two centers on:

A) the role of learning
B) how power is distributed
C) the extent to which human aspirations must be controlled
D) the extent of social disorganization
E) who possesses anomie

Question 35

Austin T. Turk's theory of criminalization is based on the concepts of:

A) status inconsistency and human aspirations
B) secondary and tertiary deviations
C) lack of socialization and social disorganization
D) disjunction between means and goals
E) authority and power

Question 36

Radical theorists rely most heavily on whose orientation?

A) Beccaria
B) Durkheim
C) Marx
D) Sutherland
E) Hirschi

Question 37

Radical theorists believe that practically all crime:

A) is learned because agencies of socialization are ineffective
B) is a reaction to political and economic structures
C) is caused by strong subcultural pressures
D) is due to the migration of norms
E) results from social disorganization

Question 38

Richard Quinney, a radical theorist, argues that crimes of domination:

A) are in integral aspect of capitalism
B) are found primarily among the lower classes
C) involve offenses such as rape and child abuse
D) are linked to anomie
E) stem from excessive labeling

Question 39

Radical theorists appear to be more concerned with:

A) property crimes than with violent crime
B) violent crime than with white collar crime
C) property crime than with white collar crime
D) violent crime than with property crime
E) white collar crime than with violent crime

Question 40

Radical criminology has been criticized for:

A) minimizing the degree of social consensus over what should be illegal
B) overstating the degree to which power is concentrated in the upper class
C) being utopian
D) all of the above
E) none of the above

Question 41

The theme of your textbook is that law can be best understood as:

A) a tool of the ruling class
B) a reflection of value consensus within society
C) having little value in defining deviance
D) an indicator of the values of powerful interest groups
E) an image of the perfect society

Question 42

Your textbook promotes an image of the deviant as:

A) essentially impulsive
B) a pawn of interest groups
C) the product of inadequate socialization
D) rational
E) a victim of the ruling class