Sociology of Deviance

Catalog description

Credits 3. 3 Lecture Hours. Exploring sociological deviance, understood as the violation of social norms and encompassing the differences in behaviors, values, attitudes, lifestyles and patterns of behavior among individuals and groups; explore and clarify the definitions, debates and theories surrounding behavior defined as deviant within specific contexts while emphasizing critical analysis of the concept of "deviance" from a variety of viewpoints; develop the necessary analytical skills and examine the research methods employed in sociology to evaluate the complexities of deviant behavior; engage in discussions that highlight the ethical considerations and social impacts in examining responses to deviance. In line with the American Sociological Association, sociology is the study of social life, social change and the social causes and consequences of human behavior. Sociologists investigate the structure of groups, organizations and societies and how people interact within these contexts. Since all human behavior is social, the subject matter of sociology ranges from the intimate family to global communities; from deviance to organized crime; from religious traditions to state institutions; and from the divisions of race, gender and social class to the shared beliefs of a common culture. The specific topics and readings assigned may vary depending on the instructor’s areas of focus and research expertise.