Normalization of Deviance

Definition

Normalization of deviance refers to the gradual process through which unacceptable behaviors or practices become accepted as normal within a group or culture. This concept emphasizes how repeated exposure to risk or deviation from established norms can lead individuals or organizations to lower their standards and rationalize harmful practices, often seen in environments where safety and ethics are critical.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In reality television, producers may push contestants to engage in risky or unethical behavior, gradually normalizing these actions as part of the show’s culture.
2. The normalization of deviance can lead to a desensitization to questionable actions among participants and audiences alike, creating an expectation that such behavior is acceptable.
3. This phenomenon can affect viewer perceptions, causing them to believe that the dramatized or exaggerated situations portrayed are reflective of real life.
4. Contestants may feel pressure to conform to these new norms, fearing exclusion from the group if they do not participate in the accepted behaviors.
5. The cycle of normalization can result in a shift in moral boundaries, where what was once considered unacceptable becomes the standard, impacting future seasons and productions.

Review Questions

• How does normalization of deviance manifest in reality television shows, particularly regarding participant behavior?
  • In reality television shows, normalization of deviance manifests as participants increasingly engage in riskier or unethical behaviors that producers encourage. As these behaviors become more common on-screen, contestants may feel compelled to conform to maintain their relevance and acceptance within the group. This acceptance creates a culture where what was once considered inappropriate is now viewed as expected behavior, ultimately changing how both contestants and audiences perceive these actions.
• Discuss the implications of normalization of deviance on viewer expectations and perceptions of reality television programming.
  • Normalization of deviance can significantly impact viewer expectations and perceptions by presenting skewed representations of reality. As audiences become accustomed to seeing certain risky behaviors portrayed as normal on their screens, they may start to accept these actions as part of everyday life. This shift can desensitize viewers, leading them to overlook ethical concerns and potentially influence their own behavior by lowering their standards for what is acceptable.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of normalization of deviance within reality television on societal norms and values.
  • The long-term consequences of normalization of deviance within reality television can reshape societal norms and values by altering viewers' perceptions of acceptable behavior. As deviant actions become integrated into entertainment culture, they can influence broader social expectations, leading to increased tolerance for unethical conduct in various contexts. This shift poses risks for real-life implications, where audiences might replicate behaviors seen on screen, undermining ethical standards and promoting a culture where deviance is normalized.

Related terms

Cognitive Dissonance: The mental discomfort experienced when holding two or more contradictory beliefs, values, or attitudes, often leading individuals to change their perceptions to alleviate this discomfort.

Groupthink: A psychological phenomenon where the desire for harmony or conformity in a group results in irrational or dysfunctional decision-making, often dismissing alternatives and suppressing dissent.

Risk Compensation: The theory that individuals may take greater risks when they perceive that they are safer, often due to the presence of safety measures, leading to potentially dangerous behaviors.