Normalization of Deviance

Definition

Normalization of deviance is the gradual acceptance of improper practices or behaviors within an organization, where deviations from established standards become standard over time. This often leads to ethical failures and scandals as individuals within the organization rationalize their behavior, believing that these deviant practices are acceptable, even when they pose significant risks.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Normalization of deviance can occur when organizations repeatedly overlook small deviations from standards, eventually leading to larger ethical breaches.
2. This phenomenon is often seen in industries where safety is paramount, such as aviation or healthcare, where small lapses can have catastrophic consequences.
3. Leadership plays a critical role in either perpetuating or combating normalization of deviance by setting the tone for ethical behavior within the organization.
4. Organizations may experience normalization of deviance due to pressures to meet deadlines, reduce costs, or maintain competitive advantages.
5. Recognizing normalization of deviance is essential for organizations to prevent future ethical failures and maintain a culture of accountability.

Review Questions

• How does normalization of deviance contribute to ethical failures in organizations?
  • Normalization of deviance contributes to ethical failures by allowing small deviations from established standards to go unchecked over time. As these deviations become more common, employees may begin to perceive them as acceptable practices, leading to increasingly risky behaviors. This gradual erosion of ethical standards can culminate in significant scandals or failures, especially when individuals prioritize organizational goals over ethical considerations.
• In what ways can leadership influence the normalization of deviance within an organization?
  • Leadership plays a pivotal role in either fostering or preventing normalization of deviance by establishing clear ethical guidelines and modeling appropriate behavior. When leaders emphasize the importance of adherence to standards and address any deviations promptly, they help create an environment that discourages unethical practices. Conversely, if leaders ignore or downplay lapses in behavior, they may inadvertently normalize deviant practices among employees, undermining the organization's ethical culture.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of normalization of deviance on an organization's reputation and sustainability.
  • The long-term implications of normalization of deviance on an organization's reputation and sustainability can be severe. As ethical breaches become normalized, trust erodes among stakeholders, including customers, investors, and employees. This loss of trust can lead to a damaged reputation, decreased customer loyalty, and potential legal repercussions. Moreover, organizations that fail to address normalization of deviance may find it increasingly difficult to attract top talent and maintain a healthy workplace culture, ultimately jeopardizing their long-term viability in the market.

Related terms

Ethical Culture: The values and behaviors that shape how decisions are made within an organization, influencing employees' actions and attitudes towards ethical practices.

Risk Management:

The identification, assessment, and prioritization of risks followed by coordinated efforts to minimize or control the probability and impact of unfortunate events.

Whistleblowing: The act of reporting unethical or illegal activities within an organization, often by employees who believe their concerns will not be addressed through normal channels.