Functionalism and Deviance

Chapter 7

Section 2

Costs and Benefits of Deviance

• Some deviance can contribute to smooth operation of society.

• Negative Effects: Erodes trust Can lead to more deviance in others. Expensive Diverts resources

• Benefits: Clarifies norms Makes society defend its values Increases unity within a group Promotes needed social change

Strain Theory

• Emile Durkheim’s Anomie: A social condition in which norms are weak, conflicting, or absent.

• Robert Merton applied this to deviance and developed Strain Theory.

• Theory that deviance is more likely to occur when a gap exists between cultural goals and the ability to achieve these goals by legitimate means.

Merton’s Strain Theory continued…

• When people accept the goal and means to achieve it is called: Conformity.

• Four Responses to Strain:1. Innovation: accepts goal, uses illegal means to

achieve it.2. Ritualism: Rejects goal, continues to use legitimate

means.3. Retreatism: rejects goals and legitimate ways of

achieving, totally giving up.4. Rebellion: Reject both success and approved means

for achieving it. Substitute new goals and means.

Control Theory

• Travis Hirschi’s control theory based on Durkheim’s views.

• Control theory: theory that compliance with social norms requires strong bonds between individuals and society

• 4 Basic Principles1. Attachment: More likely to conform with strong attachments.2. Commitment: Greater commitment leads to conformity.3. Involvement: Participation in approved social activity 4. Belief: Belief in norms and values leads to conformity.

Your assignment

• Write an explanation for each positive and negative effect of deviance (8 total).