Match each social theorist to how his work relates to social deviance theory.
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Émile Durkheim
Erving Goffman
Robert Merton
Howard Becker
offered a functionalist theory of deviance
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developed strain theory as a functionalist account of social deviance
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applied labeling theory to the question of how deviance begins
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applied social interactionist theory to the dynamics of stigma
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct matches between each social theorist and their contributions to social deviance theory are:
- Émile Durkheim: offered a functionalist theory of deviance.
- Robert Merton: developed strain theory as a functionalist account of social deviance.
- Howard Becker: applied labeling theory to the question of how deviance begins.
- Erving Goffman: applied social interactionist theory to the dynamics of stigma.
Émile Durkheim viewed deviance as an integral part of society, arguing that it serves essential functions such as affirming cultural values and norms, clarifying moral boundaries, promoting social unity, and facilitating social change. His functionalist perspective suggests that deviance is necessary for the proper functioning of society.
Robert Merton expanded on Durkheim’s ideas by introducing strain theory, which posits that deviance occurs when there is a disconnect between culturally prescribed goals and the socially accepted means to achieve them. This disjunction creates strain, leading individuals to engage in deviant behavior as an alternative means to achieve societal goals.
Howard Becker is renowned for his work on labeling theory, particularly in his book “Outsiders.” He argued that deviance is not an inherent quality of an act but is instead the result of society’s reaction to the act. By labeling certain behaviors as deviant, society creates deviance. This perspective emphasizes the role of societal reaction in the development of deviant identities.
Erving Goffman focused on the concept of stigma and how societal reactions to certain attributes can lead to an individual’s marginalization. In his work “Stigma: Notes on the Management of Spoiled Identity,” Goffman examined how individuals manage their identities in the face of social stigma, highlighting the interactionist perspective on deviance.
These theorists collectively provide a comprehensive understanding of social deviance, each offering unique insights into the causes, functions, and societal reactions to deviant behavior.