Question 1

Is all deviance a crime?

Accepted Answer

No. This is a common misconception. A crime is an act that violates the formal, written laws of a state. Deviance is a much broader concept, referring to any behaviour that violates social norms. Many deviant acts, such as facing the wrong way in a lift or having a brightly coloured mohawk, are not criminal. Conversely, while most crimes are considered deviant, some (like illegal parking) may be seen as only minor deviations.

Question 2

Is social control always a negative or oppressive force?

Accepted Answer

Not according to all sociological perspectives. While Marxists and Feminists often view social control as a tool of oppression used by the powerful to maintain inequality, Functionalists see it as a positive and necessary force. For Functionalists like Durkheim, social control maintains social order, prevents anomie (normlessness), and ensures society can function smoothly and predictably for the benefit of all its members.

Question 3

What is the difference between conformity and obedience?

Accepted Answer

Although related, they are distinct concepts. Conformity involves changing your behaviour to fit in with a group that does not have official authority over you; it is yielding to group pressure. For example, dressing like your friends. Obedience, on the other hand, is following a direct order or command from a figure of authority, such as a police officer or a teacher. The key difference is the presence of an explicit command from an authority figure.

Social control, conformity and resistance

What you need to know

Social control, conformity and resistance