Deviance and Social Control Graphic Organizer

Functionalist Perspective Strain Theory: Deviance is a natural outgrowth of the values, norms, and structure of society. Not everyone has means to achieve society’s goals. Those who don’t are left without sufficient guidelines for behavior, causing confusion. Theorist: Robert K. Merton Modes of Adaptation: Conformity, innovation, ritualism, retreatism, rebellion

Conflict Perspective Conflict Theory: Competition and social inequality lead to deviance. People with power commit deviant acts in an effort to maintain their position. People without power commit deviant acts to obtain economic rewards or because of low self- esteem or feelings of powerlessness. Theorist: Richard Quinney

Interactionist Perspective Control Theory: Deviance is a natural occurrence. Social ties determine conformity. Individuals integrated into the community are likely to conform; those with weak community ties are likely to commit deviant acts. Also, deviance results from weak self-control. Theorist: Travis Hairschi, Michael Gottfredson

Interactionist Perspective Cultural Transmission Theory: Deviance is learned through interaction with others engaging in deviant acts, particularly in one’s primary group. All individuals conform; deviants just conform to norms different from those of society. Theorist: Edwin Sutherland, Gresham Sykes, David Matza

Interactionist Perspective Labeling Theory: All people commit deviant acts, but not all are labeled as deviants. Some acts go undetected. Once a person is labeled deviant in a public setting, such as a trial, the label becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy and often becomes the person’s master status. (Tiger Woods) Theorist: Edwin Lemert, Howard Becker, Harold Garfinkle.