Sociology: Chapter 6 Discussion - Deviance

Deviance is defined in sociology as those activities or appearances that are discouraged or condemned due to them not being consistent with the norms or expectations of the larger group. Often, acts that are considered deviant by one group or at one time may be seen as normal by another group or at another time. For a group of bikers in a bar, several exposed tattoos may be considered the norm, while the same exposed tattoos in the courtroom on an attorney may be seen as deviant.

When we express deviance (or compliance), we often experience the consequences of sanctions. Sanctions are those positive or negative reactions we receive from others to either encourage to continue an approved behavior or discourage us from continuing with one that is deviant.

Discussion: Can you describe a time in your life when you wanted to do something and decided against it because you feared sanctions that someone important to you might apply? Explain. (Ferrante, 2016, p 205).

Ferrante, J. (2016). Seeing sociology, an introduction, 3rd ed. Boston: Cengage.

Discussions play an integral role in monitoring your course participation throughout the term. You should check back to the weekly discussions multiple times throughout the week to engage in the discussion with your professor and peers. Participation is only counted during the week in which this discussion is assigned. Be sure to appropriately cite any sources you use to support your responses with standard APA citations. Answer the prompt question(s) thoroughly using a minimum of 150-200 words and respond to as many of your peers as possible - note that responses to 2 of your peers are required for full credit. Be sure to answer any additional questions asked by your professor in the discussion threads. Your initial post is due by Day 3 of the current week, and follow up posts to your peers are due on Day 7!