Which of the following is a major difference between the symbolic interactionist (SI)and functionalist perspectives on deviance?
A) SI sees deviance as negative, and functionalism sees it as positive.
B) SI takes a micro or close-up look at individuals to explain deviance, and functionalism looks at macro-level social systems to explain it.
C) SI accepts that there is deviance in society, while functionalism argues that society functions without deviance.
D) SI argues that deviance plays an important symbolic role in society that helps reinforce cohesion, while functionalism argues that deviance threatens social cohesion.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The major difference between the symbolic interactionist (SI) and functionalist perspectives on deviance is that SI takes a micro or close-up look at individuals to explain deviance, while functionalism looks at macro-level social systems to explain it. SI focuses on how individuals interact with each other and the meanings they assign to deviant behavior, while functionalism emphasizes the role of deviance in maintaining social order and stability. Choice A is incorrect because both perspectives acknowledge that deviance exists in society. Choice C is incorrect because functionalism does not argue that society functions without deviance. Choice D is incorrect because functionalism argues that deviance helps reinforce social norms and values.

Which of the Following Is a Major Difference Between the Symbolic