deviance Definition
- 1the fact or state of departing from usual or accepted standards, especially in social or sexual behavior.
- 2the degree to which the members of a society or group feel united by shared values and other social bonds.
Using deviance: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "deviance" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
His deviance from the norm was seen as a threat to the community.
Example
The study of deviance in sociology examines how social norms are created and enforced.
Example
Her deviant behavior was a result of her difficult childhood.
deviance Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for deviance
Antonyms for deviance
Phrases with deviance
Example
The therapist specializes in treating patients with sexual deviance.
a process in which the media and other agents of social control exaggerate the extent of a particular social problem, leading to increased concern and fear among the public
Example
The media's coverage of the crime led to deviance amplification, with people becoming more fearful of crime than before.
the initial act of deviance that may or may not lead to further acts of deviance and eventual labeling as a deviant
Example
The teenager's primary deviance was stealing a candy bar from the store.
Origins of deviance
from French 'déviance', from 'dévier' meaning 'to stray'
Summary: deviance in Brief
Deviance [dee-vey-uhns] refers to the act of departing from usual or accepted standards, particularly in social or sexual behavior. It can also refer to the degree to which a society or group feels united by shared values and social bonds. Examples of deviance include behavior that is considered abnormal or unacceptable by society, such as sexual deviance. The study of deviance in sociology examines how social norms are created and enforced.
