Deviance vs. Deviancy

Attribute	Deviance	Deviancy
Definition	Behavior that violates social norms and expectations	The quality of being deviant
Causes	Can be influenced by social, cultural, and individual factors	Can be influenced by psychological, biological, and environmental factors
Perception	Can be seen as negative or positive depending on the context	Often viewed as negative and undesirable
Impact	Can lead to social stigma, criminalization, or social change	Can result in social exclusion, discrimination, or intervention

Definition

Deviance and deviancy are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings. Deviance refers to behavior that violates social norms and expectations, while deviancy refers to the state of being deviant or diverging from societal norms. In other words, deviance is the act of deviating from the norm, while deviancy is the quality of being deviant.

Causes

Deviance can be caused by a variety of factors, including individual characteristics, social influences, and structural factors. Individual characteristics such as personality traits or psychological disorders can contribute to deviant behavior. Social influences, such as peer pressure or cultural norms, can also play a role in shaping deviant behavior. Structural factors, such as poverty or inequality, can create conditions that lead to deviance.

Deviancy, on the other hand, is often seen as a more stable trait that is inherent to an individual. Some researchers argue that deviancy is a result of biological or genetic factors, while others believe that it is a product of socialization and upbringing. Regardless of the cause, deviancy is typically viewed as a more enduring characteristic than deviance.

Consequences

Deviance can have a range of consequences, both positive and negative. On the positive side, deviance can challenge existing norms and lead to social change. For example, civil rights activists who engage in acts of civil disobedience are often seen as deviant, but their actions can ultimately lead to greater equality and justice. On the negative side, deviance can result in social stigma, legal sanctions, or even imprisonment.

Deviancy, on the other hand, is often associated with negative consequences. Individuals who are perceived as deviant may face discrimination, exclusion, or marginalization. This can lead to feelings of alienation and isolation, as well as mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. In extreme cases, deviancy can result in criminal behavior or violence.

Perception

Deviance is often viewed as a relative concept that varies across cultures and time periods. What is considered deviant in one society may be perfectly acceptable in another. For example, behaviors such as homosexuality or drug use may be considered deviant in some cultures but not in others. This cultural relativity highlights the subjective nature of deviance.

Deviancy, on the other hand, is often seen as a more universal and objective concept. Individuals who exhibit deviant traits or behaviors are often labeled as deviant regardless of cultural or societal norms. This labeling process can have lasting effects on an individual's identity and self-concept.

Response

Deviance and deviancy both play important roles in shaping social norms and behaviors. While deviance challenges existing norms and can lead to social change, deviancy is often associated with negative consequences and social stigma. Understanding the differences between these two concepts can help us better understand the complexities of human behavior and society.