Theories of Deviance

Description: This quiz covers various theories of deviance, exploring the different perspectives and explanations for why individuals engage in deviant behavior.
Number of Questions: 15
Created by:
Tags: sociology social theory deviance criminology
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Which theory of deviance emphasizes the role of social norms and values in shaping individual behavior?

  1. Social Control Theory

  2. Strain Theory

  3. Labeling Theory

  4. Differential Association Theory


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Social Control Theory posits that individuals are less likely to engage in deviant behavior when they are strongly attached to conventional norms and values and when they perceive a high risk of being caught and punished.

According to Strain Theory, what is the primary cause of deviance?

  1. Social Inequality

  2. Lack of Opportunity

  3. Peer Pressure

  4. Mental Illness


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Strain Theory argues that deviance arises when individuals experience a gap between their aspirations and their ability to achieve them due to social inequality and lack of opportunities.

Which theory of deviance focuses on the process by which individuals are labeled as deviant and the consequences of such labeling?

  1. Social Control Theory

  2. Strain Theory

  3. Labeling Theory

  4. Differential Association Theory


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Labeling Theory proposes that deviance is not inherent in behavior itself but rather is a consequence of the way society defines and reacts to certain behaviors.

Differential Association Theory posits that deviance is learned through:

  1. Socialization

  2. Genetics

  3. Media Influence

  4. Economic Factors


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Differential Association Theory suggests that individuals learn deviant behavior through their interactions with others, particularly those who are already engaged in deviant activities.

Which theory of deviance emphasizes the role of social conflict and power dynamics in shaping deviant behavior?

  1. Social Control Theory

  2. Strain Theory

  3. Conflict Theory

  4. Differential Association Theory


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Conflict Theory views deviance as a product of social conflict and power struggles, arguing that those in positions of power define what is considered deviant to maintain their dominance.

According to Social Learning Theory, individuals learn deviant behavior through:

  1. Observational Learning

  2. Classical Conditioning

  3. Operant Conditioning

  4. All of the Above


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Social Learning Theory incorporates elements of observational learning, classical conditioning, and operant conditioning to explain how individuals acquire and maintain deviant behaviors.

Which theory of deviance suggests that deviance is a form of resistance against oppressive social structures?

  1. Social Control Theory

  2. Strain Theory

  3. Radical Criminology

  4. Differential Association Theory


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Radical Criminology views deviance as a form of resistance against oppressive social structures, arguing that the criminal justice system is biased against marginalized groups.

According to Routine Activities Theory, what are the three necessary conditions for a crime to occur?

  1. Suitable Target

  2. Motivated Offender

  3. Lack of Capable Guardianship

  4. All of the Above


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Routine Activities Theory posits that a crime occurs when a suitable target, a motivated offender, and a lack of capable guardianship converge in time and space.

Which theory of deviance emphasizes the role of biological and genetic factors in shaping deviant behavior?

  1. Social Control Theory

  2. Strain Theory

  3. Biosocial Theory

  4. Differential Association Theory


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Biosocial Theory integrates biological and social factors to explain deviance, suggesting that certain biological traits may predispose individuals to engage in deviant behavior, but these traits are influenced by social and environmental factors.

According to Rational Choice Theory, individuals engage in deviant behavior because:

  1. They weigh the costs and benefits of their actions

  2. They are influenced by social norms

  3. They are coerced into it

  4. They are mentally ill


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Rational Choice Theory assumes that individuals rationally calculate the potential rewards and punishments associated with deviant behavior and choose to engage in it if they perceive the benefits to outweigh the costs.

Which theory of deviance focuses on the role of social disorganization and anomie in shaping deviant behavior?

  1. Social Control Theory

  2. Strain Theory

  3. Social Disorganization Theory

  4. Differential Association Theory


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Social Disorganization Theory proposes that deviance is more likely to occur in areas characterized by high levels of social disorganization and anomie, where social norms and values are weak or absent.

According to Control Balance Theory, individuals engage in deviant behavior when:

  1. Internal and external controls are weak

  2. Internal controls are strong and external controls are weak

  3. Internal controls are weak and external controls are strong

  4. Internal and external controls are strong


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Control Balance Theory suggests that deviance occurs when individuals experience a lack of both internal controls (e.g., self-control, moral values) and external controls (e.g., parental supervision, social norms).

Which theory of deviance emphasizes the role of social learning and imitation in shaping deviant behavior?

  1. Social Control Theory

  2. Strain Theory

  3. Social Learning Theory

  4. Differential Association Theory


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Social Learning Theory posits that individuals learn deviant behavior through observing and imitating others, particularly those who are close to them or who they admire.

According to Labeling Theory, deviance is:

  1. Inherent in certain behaviors

  2. A product of social norms and values

  3. A consequence of social labeling

  4. A result of biological factors


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Labeling Theory argues that deviance is not inherent in behavior itself but rather is a consequence of the way society defines and reacts to certain behaviors.

Which theory of deviance emphasizes the role of social class and economic inequality in shaping deviant behavior?

  1. Social Control Theory

  2. Strain Theory

  3. Marxist Theory

  4. Differential Association Theory


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Marxist Theory views deviance as a product of social class and economic inequality, arguing that the capitalist system creates conditions that lead to poverty, crime, and other forms of deviance.

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