Asked by Heather Smith on Jul 03, 2024
A significant difference between the functionalist and conflict theories of deviance is that
A) functionalist theory assumes the system works for the good of the whole, and conflict theory assumes it works for the good of those in power.
B) functionalist theory focuses on social structure, and conflict theory focuses on social control.
C) functionalist theory focuses on the individual, and conflict theory focuses on society as a whole.
D) functionalist theory ignores the role of deviance in society, and conflict theory focuses on the role of deviance in society.
Functionalist Theory
A sociological perspective that interprets each part of society in terms of how it contributes to the stability and functionality of the whole.
Conflict Theory
A sociological perspective that emphasizes the role of power struggles and inequality in shaping social relations and societal structures.
Social Structure
The organized pattern of social relationships and social institutions that together compose society, determining the behavior of individuals and groups.
- Analyze and differentiate between the principal sociological perspectives on deviance, namely functionalist, conflict, and symbolic interactionist theories.
Learning Objectives
- Analyze and differentiate between the principal sociological perspectives on deviance, namely functionalist, conflict, and symbolic interactionist theories.