Deviance

Definition

Deviance describes behaviors or actions that violate societal norms, leading to negative judgement from the majority. It can range from minor infractions, like jaywalking, to more severe acts, such as embezzlement.

Related terms

Social norms: The implicit or explicit rules a group has for the acceptable behaviors, values, and beliefs of its members.

Stigma:

A powerful negative label that greatly changes a person's self-concept and social identity.

Social control: The methods and strategies society uses to prevent and sanction behavior that violates socially established norms