Abstract
What constitutes deviant behavior? There are different perspectives that influence what is considered to be deviant behavior. These lead us to determine whether or not criminal behavior poses a greater social problem than deviant behavior. Taking in these concepts also helps us to determine whether a behavior is deviant, criminal or both.
Homework #1
Whether a behavior is considered deviant, criminal, or both depends on multiple perspectives. When it comes to deviant and criminal behavior, I believe that criminal behavior poses a greater social problem than deviant behavior. There are also many factors which influence what we consider to be deviant such as the situation and social norms.
What is Deviant Behavior?
There are many different perspectives on determining if a behavior is considered deviant. A behavior that is deviant is one that violates what we view as normal behavior. Norms change depending on the setting and the person committing the act. A behavior or act that would be considered criminal, but not deviant would be jaywalking or speeding. Though these actions are criminal, most people perform these acts on a regular basis and would view them as normal. Something that is thought to be deviant, but not criminal would be a woman telling her significant other that she is pregnant to try to keep them from leaving her. Lastly, an act or behavior that would be considered both deviant and criminal is one such as murder, rape, or selling illegal drugs. Each of these is not only a criminal act, but they’re also out of the norm.
Influences and Which Poses a Greater Problem
By going into greater detail about what deviant behavior is, we notice that what one person considers deviant another may consider normal. The major factors that influence what we consider to be deviant are the situation and what is deemed normal in society. Many things can change whether or not we believe something to be deviant, especially the situation. An example would be a couple showing public display of affection at a party. If said couple were to be politicians the PDA would be very unwelcome, but if the couple were to be college students at a typical college party the PDA would most likely go unnoticed. Because of these influences, I believe that criminal behavior poses a greater social problem than deviant behavior. I also believe this, because most criminal behaviors are harmful, while deviant behavior is generally harmless which makes it become a norm.
Conclusion
Whether a behavior is deviant or not depends on multiple different factors such as the situation and what is considered normal among many other things. Because criminal behavior is illegal and generally harmful, it poses a greater societal problem
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