Deviant Behavior - Research Paper Example

Deviant Behavior Deviant Behavior Deviant behavior is any behavior that is considered wayward based on societal norms. One such behavior that one society may consider deviant is homosexuality. One society may find this deviant behavior while, in other societies, it is not. Some of the factors that contribute to society thinking of homosexuality as deviant behavior include religion, the risk of illnesses associated with homosexuality, and the isolation of the society. Many societies consider homosexuality as deviant behavior because, in normal circles, it is not permitted.

It is seen as being immoral and contrary to the teachings of many of the world’s religions. The reason why some societies have accepted this deviant behavior is that they consider it the free will of two or more individuals (Kornblum, 2011). In the United States, for example, it is a democratic right to express one’s sexuality as one may see fit. People often commit crimes, and their status in society may see to how they are treated after such deviant behavior. An example is if a political figure is accused of sexual assault on a woman, or his wife.

The matter may not be given the seriousness that a normal person may get from the law. Depending on the serious nature of the crime, people in a position of power get off much easily than those in lesser positions. There are many examples of deviant behavior among individuals. The determining factor to what is considered deviant and what is not is society. It may decide to look at one thing in one way, and differently at another. This works toward shaping the nature and characteristics of a society, at the end of the day (Henry, 2009).

ReferencesHenry, S. (2009). Social deviance. London: Sage Publishers.Kornblum, W. (2011). Sociology in a changing world. New York: Free Press.