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

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Focusing only on the most obvious and extreme forms of deviant behavior means that the deviance of the poor and marginalized is often the only behavior that is scrutinized. This approach ignores the fact that the powerful also engage in deviant behavior and reinforces the idea that deviance is solely the province of the poor and powerless. It also means that the values and norms of the powerful are left unexamined, which can lead to a distorted view of what is considered "normal" behavior in a society.

When Studying Deviance, Sociologists Often Focus on the Most Obvious