Perfect — let’s now do the same structured Notion-compatible analysis for Deviance & Reference Group Theory:
Deviance & Reference Group Theory
Deviance – Basic Idea
- Deviance refers to behaviour that violates social norms, values, or expectations.
- It is socially relative → what is deviant in one group or context may be acceptable in another.
- Not always negative: deviance can lead to innovation, reform, and social change (Durkheim: crime is “normal” and necessary for boundary-setting).
Reference Group Theory – Connection to Deviance
- Reference groups define norms → When individuals do not conform, they are labelled deviant.
- Deviance is group-relative:
- A behaviour may be deviant in one group but normative in another.
- Example: Drinking alcohol may be deviant in a conservative religious group but accepted in urban youth circles.
- Dual reference groups:
- Sometimes individuals follow one reference group’s norms and deviate from another’s.
- E.g., Dalit assertion movements → deviating from dominant caste norms but conforming to their own community’s reference group.
Role of Reference Groups in Explaining Deviance
1. Source of Deviant Behaviour
- When people adopt comparative reference groups with different values, they may be labelled deviant by their membership group.
- Example: Rural youth emulating urban fashion may be seen as deviant at home.
2. Deviance as Resistance
- Individuals or sub-groups may consciously reject the norms of dominant reference groups.
- Example: Feminist and LGBTQ+ movements challenge traditional gender/sexuality norms.