1. Theories of Deviance

2. Cultural Transmission Theory
deviance is a learned behavior
differential association – interactions with deviants will make you deviant
EX: you grow up around violent crime and then become violent

3. Structural-Strain Theory
deviance is a natural outgrowth of values, norms, and structure of society
when cultural goals and the means of achieving those goals don’t line up – strain is produced
4 responses to strain: innovation, ritualism, retreatism, rebellion (pg. 165)

4. Control Theory
weak ties to the community increase likelihood of deviant acts
people with strong ties have more to lose if they are deviant
with more social ties, your inner controls will be stronger to keep you from deviating

5. Conflict Theory struggle between haves and have-nots
haves commit deviance to maintain power
have-nots commit deviance:
to obtain financial rewards
because they have low self-esteem

6. Labeling Theory
focuses on how our labels affect our self-concept (secondary deviance)
how we’re labeled sets us on paths of either deviance or conformity

7. Bob Peterson: Just out of curiosity
Bob Peterson: Just out of curiosity. What exactly is your Halloween costume? Jeff Montgomery: I’m a sex offender. Bob Peterson: Excuse me? Jeff Montgomery: I’m a sex offender. Oh, oh, for Halloween! Bob Peterson: You’re a sex offender? Jeff Montgomery: Yeah, pretty convincing, huh? Here, watch this: ” I’m Jeff Montgomery. By law I’m required to inform you that I am a repeat offender and I’ll be living in your neighborhood.” Great costume, right? Could you sign and date this, please?