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Social Conformity and Deviance

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Social Conformity and Deviance

Introduction
Social conformity and deviance are two important sociological concepts that
describe how individuals interact with the social norms of their society.
Conformity is the process of following the norms and values of a group, while
deviance is the process of violating those norms. Both conformity and deviance
play a role in maintaining social order and promoting social change.

Meaning and Causes of Conformity


Conformity is the tendency to follow the norms and values of a group. It is a
learned behavior that begins in early childhood, when children learn the norms of
their family and community. Conformity is influenced by a variety of factors,
including:

Socialization: Socialization is the process by which individuals learn the norms


and values of their society. It occurs through interaction with family, friends,
teachers, and other members of society.
Insulation: Insulation refers to the degree to which an individual is exposed to
different groups and perspectives. Individuals who are more insulated are more
likely to conform to the norms of their primary group.
Hierarchy of norms: Norms vary in their importance and enforcement. Some
norms, such as taboos, are strictly enforced, while others, such as customs, are
more flexible. Individuals are more likely to conform to important norms.
Social controls: Social controls are mechanisms that society uses to encourage
conformity. Formal social controls include laws and punishments, while informal
social controls include social pressure and disapproval.
Ideology: Ideology is a system of beliefs that justifies the social order. Ideology
can promote conformity by convincing individuals that the status quo is fair and
just.

Social Control and Conformity


Social control is the process by which society ensures conformity. Social control
can be formal or informal.
Self-control: Self-control is the ability to regulate one's own behavior. It is an
important aspect of social control, as it allows individuals to conform to social
norms without the need for external pressure.
Informal control: Informal control is exerted by individuals and groups in the
course of everyday interaction. Examples of informal control include social
pressure, disapproval, and ridicule.
Formal control: Formal control is exerted by institutions such as the police, the
courts, and the government. Examples of formal control include laws,
punishments, and surveillance.

Definition and Types of Deviance


Deviance is behavior that violates social norms. Deviance can be minor (e.g.,
jaywalking) or major (e.g., murder). It can also be individual or collective.

Types of deviance: Deviance can be classified in a number of ways. One common


classification scheme is to distinguish between primary deviance and secondary
deviance. Primary deviance is a single act of deviance that does not have a lasting
impact on the individual's social identity. Secondary deviance is a pattern of
deviant behavior that leads to the individual being labeled as a deviant.
Factors Facilitating Deviance
There are a number of factors that can facilitate deviance, including:
Differential association theory: Differential association theory posits that deviance
is learned through interaction with deviant individuals and groups.
Deterrence theory: Deterrence theory posits that individuals are less likely to
engage in deviant behavior if they believe that they will be punished if they are
caught.
Labeling theory: Labeling theory posits that deviance is a social construct.
Deviance occurs when individuals are labeled as deviant by others.
Control theory: Control theory posits that individuals are less likely to engage in
deviant behavior if they have strong social ties and commitments.

Social Significance of Deviant Behavior


Deviant behavior can have a number of social consequences. It can disrupt social
order, lead to crime, and undermine social institutions. However, deviant behavior
can also have positive consequences. It can lead to social change and the
development of new norms and values.

Conclusion
Social conformity and deviance are two important sociological concepts that help
us to understand how individuals interact with the social norms of their society.
Both conformity and deviance play a role in maintaining social order and
promoting social change.

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