Sociologists studying deviance often focus on the most obvious and extreme forms of deviant behavior. What are the consequences of this approach?
A) Only those deviant individuals who embrace their deviant labels will be studied.
B) Only the deviant behaviors of the rich and powerful will be studied.
C) The values and norms of the powerful are left unexamined, while the deviance of the poor is scrutinized.
D) Few, if any, of the most serious problems in a given society can be identified.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

By focusing only on the most obvious and extreme forms of deviant behavior, sociologists may overlook other forms of deviance that are more subtle or perpetrated by those in positions of power. This can lead to a bias towards studying the deviance of marginalized groups, while ignoring deviant behavior by those in positions of power. As a result, the values and norms of the powerful are left unexamined, while the deviance of the poor is scrutinized. This can perpetuate social inequalities and maintain the status quo.

Sociologists Studying Deviance Often Focus on the Most Obvious and Extreme