Functionalist theories of deviance
A) fear that deviance creates the breakdown of society.
B) view deviance as necessary in order to clarify what the norms of society are.
C) believe that punishment of deviance is dysfunctional because it prevents the deviance that is necessary for society.
D) assume that norms are largely meaningless.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Functionalist theories of deviance, such as those proposed by Emile Durkheim, argue that deviance plays a crucial role in society by helping to clarify societal norms and values, promoting social cohesion, and enabling social change.

Functionalist Theories of Deviance