In the early 1950s, many Americans became interested in riding motorcycles as a hobby. At the same time, "bikers" were beginning to develop their modern reputation as antisocial thugs, criminals, and outlaws. One official of a national motorcycle organization argued that a few bad apples shouldn't be allowed to ruin all motorcyclists' reputations and that it was only 1 percent of motorcyclists who were really bad. After this interview was published, some bikers started wearing a "one percenter" patch on their leather jackets, a gesture Erving Goffman would call:
A) antisocial behavior.
B) passing.
C) overt deviance.
D) deviance avowal.
E) in-group orientation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Erving Goffman's concept of deviance avowal refers to the act of a person or group openly embracing their status as deviants, rather than attempting to hide their deviant behavior or reputation. By wearing the "one percenter" patch, bikers were publicly acknowledging their affiliation with a deviant subculture and embracing its values and norms.

In the Early 1950s, Many Americans Became Interested in Riding