Deviant Behavior

Deviant Behavior
Written by: Kelly L. Hunter



Deviant behavior is defined as recognized violations against the cultural norm (Macionis, J. 2006). Deviant behavior can come in many forms especially in our own particular country. American society has many limits and boundaries when it comes to what people refer to as acceptable behavior. Deviant behavior does not always have to be in the form of an action or negative choice like committing a crime (Macionis, J. 2006).
Often times just being different than what society has labeled as normal can be considered deviant. J. Macionis (2006) states in Chapter 7 that “The very existence of some categories of people can be troublesome to others” (p. 167). This can include gender, age, sexual orientation, and race. What is considered acceptable in one country or society may not be considered acceptable here in America.
Take for instance body piercing and modification; this is an ancient art form that has been a major part of different tribes throughout our world. African tribe members have been piercing their face and other body parts for centuries as a way to express their spiritual beliefs as well as during different rituals that are performed within their tribes. This art form is not considered to be deviant or out of the ordinary in Africa and is simply a part of their everyday culture and life.
Piercing became very popular in America amongst teenagers and 20 something’s about 10 to 15 years ago. Although this is something that is accepted amongst younger generations, many people find this expression to be obscene and offensive. The people who do not agree with this lifestyle truly believe that these youngsters are merely doing these insane things to their bodies for attention.
On another note, power means everything to most Americans and many people spend their lifetimes trying to obtain this power. When people who have a wealth of power in our culture commit crimes, often times they are able to buy their way out of trouble. If they are unable to pay for their actions with cold hard cash, they often times receive a suspended sentence where no jail time is actually served. At the mere chance that this person does have to serve time, it is usually done in a very posh facility with many amenities that you or I do not get to experience on a daily basis in the free world.