deviance

[dee-vey-uhns]

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

Phrases with deviance

  • sexual behavior that is considered abnormal or unacceptable by society

    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'

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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.