Asked by Michelle Schneider on Jun 14, 2024
Verified
Deviance may vary with time and place . What does this statement mean?
Deviance
Behaviors or actions that diverge from the societal norm, often eliciting negative reactions from the majority.
- Recognize the concept of social deviance and how its perception varies across different contexts.
Verified Answer
KJ
Katrina JacquelynJun 20, 2024
Final Answer :
The statement "Deviance may vary with time and place" means that what is considered deviant behavior is not fixed or absolute but can change depending on the cultural, social, historical, and geographical context. Deviance refers to actions or behaviors that violate the norms, values, or expectations of a group or society. Because these norms and values are not universal and can evolve, what is deemed deviant in one society or time period may be seen as normal or acceptable in another.
Several factors contribute to the variability of deviance:
1. Cultural Differences: Different cultures have different norms and values, which means that an act considered deviant in one culture might be perfectly acceptable in another. For example, certain forms of dress or personal expression might be frowned upon in one society but celebrated in another.
2. Social Change: Over time, societies change, and with them, their norms and values. Behaviors that were once seen as deviant can become normalized, and vice versa. For instance, attitudes towards same-sex relationships have changed significantly in many parts of the world over the past few decades.
3. Historical Context: The historical period also plays a role in defining deviance. For example, the prohibition era in the United States made the production and sale of alcohol deviant, whereas it is legal and widely accepted today.
4. Legal Definitions: Laws are often a reflection of what a society considers deviant, but these laws can change. What is illegal (and thus deviant) at one point in time may be decriminalized later, such as the use of cannabis in some jurisdictions.
5. Subcultures: Within a larger society, different subcultures may have their own set of norms and values that differ from the mainstream. A behavior that is deviant according to the broader society's standards may not be seen as such within a subculture.
6. Situational Context: The context or setting of a behavior can also influence whether it is seen as deviant. For example, drinking alcohol might be acceptable at a social event but not while at work or while driving.
In summary, the statement "Deviance may vary with time and place" acknowledges the fluid and socially constructed nature of deviance. It highlights the importance of considering the specific cultural, temporal, and situational factors that contribute to the perception and definition of deviant behavior.
Several factors contribute to the variability of deviance:
1. Cultural Differences: Different cultures have different norms and values, which means that an act considered deviant in one culture might be perfectly acceptable in another. For example, certain forms of dress or personal expression might be frowned upon in one society but celebrated in another.
2. Social Change: Over time, societies change, and with them, their norms and values. Behaviors that were once seen as deviant can become normalized, and vice versa. For instance, attitudes towards same-sex relationships have changed significantly in many parts of the world over the past few decades.
3. Historical Context: The historical period also plays a role in defining deviance. For example, the prohibition era in the United States made the production and sale of alcohol deviant, whereas it is legal and widely accepted today.
4. Legal Definitions: Laws are often a reflection of what a society considers deviant, but these laws can change. What is illegal (and thus deviant) at one point in time may be decriminalized later, such as the use of cannabis in some jurisdictions.
5. Subcultures: Within a larger society, different subcultures may have their own set of norms and values that differ from the mainstream. A behavior that is deviant according to the broader society's standards may not be seen as such within a subculture.
6. Situational Context: The context or setting of a behavior can also influence whether it is seen as deviant. For example, drinking alcohol might be acceptable at a social event but not while at work or while driving.
In summary, the statement "Deviance may vary with time and place" acknowledges the fluid and socially constructed nature of deviance. It highlights the importance of considering the specific cultural, temporal, and situational factors that contribute to the perception and definition of deviant behavior.
Learning Objectives
- Recognize the concept of social deviance and how its perception varies across different contexts.