Deviance and Social Norms

Deviance refers to behaviors, beliefs, or characteristics that violate social norms—unwritten rules that guide acceptable conduct within a society. Social norms vary across cultures and contexts, shaping our expectations of appropriate behavior. When someone acts in ways that differ from these expectations, they are considered deviant. However, what is seen as deviant can change over time and depending on circumstances. Understanding deviance helps us recognize social boundaries and address issues like crime or social harmony, emphasizing that norms are socially constructed and context-dependent.