Deviant Behavior: Definition, Causes, and Types

Deviant behavior refers to actions that deviate from social norms, which are informal societal expectations or formal laws. In contrast, socially acceptable behavior consists of actions deemed appropriate in the presence of others.

Causes of Deviant Behavior:

The causes of deviant behavior are multifaceted, encompassing psychological, biological, and sociological factors. It is vital to recognize that multiple factors interact to cause deviant behavior, including genetic predispositions, personality traits, upbringing, environmental influences, and social pressures.

Psychological Explanations:

• Psychoanalytical theories propose that repressed, unconscious drives can lead to social deviance.
• Learning theories assert that deviant behaviors are acquired through observation and imitation of others.

Biological Explanations:

• Biological explanations emphasize the role of genetic factors in deviant behavior. For instance, genetic research indicates a significant contribution of genes in the development of addiction. Genes also influence temperament and personality traits that may predispose individuals to deviant conduct.

Sociological Explanations:

• A prominent sociological explanation, Merton's strain theory, argues that the tension between societal goals and the means available to achieve them can lead to deviant behavior. This can manifest in actions like stealing or drug dealing as a way to fulfill socially aspired ideals, such as wealth.

Addiction and Deviant Behavior:

Addiction, encompassing substances like alcohol, gambling, and sex, can involve both socially acceptable and socially deviant behaviors. For example, moderate drinking after work is socially acceptable, while excessive drinking and driving is considered deviant.

Social deviance in the context of addiction is often highly stigmatized, posing significant challenges for individuals engaging in these behaviors, irrespective of whether addiction is present.

The Continuum of Social Acceptability:

A wide range of behaviors exists, spanning from socially acceptable to deviant, influenced by both formal and informal social norms. Some examples of socially unacceptable behaviors include inappropriate physical contact, public nudity, and excessive cursing. Examples of deviant behavior include drug use, theft, murder, excessive alcohol consumption, and assault.

Understanding the continuum from social acceptability to social deviance can be illustrated through specific instances. The following table exemplifies various stages of addictive behaviors within this continuum, indicating their varying levels of deviance within mainstream Western cultures:

| Behavior | Social Deviance Level | | Heroin Injection | Extreme Deviance | | Binge Drinking | High Deviance | | Smoking Cigarettes | Moderate Deviance | | Social Drinking | Mild Deviance | | Moderate Caffeine Consumption | Socially Acceptable | | Drinking Herbal Tea | Socially Acceptable |

It is crucial to note that behaviors deemed deviant can vary among different cultures, social groups, and time periods. Therefore, evaluating deviant behavior requires considering the specific context.