
Deviance Video Collage By Kaci Russell Rasmussen University HSA4210CBE Section 01 Sociology in a Digital World Jennifer Gossett Str 10/29/25.
Physical Word:. Deviance refers to behaviors that violate societal norms or expectations. Examples include theft, vandalism, and violence. Deviance is a violation of norms, and its definition an vary depending on the context and societal response to the behavior. Society often uses sanctions to maintain social control and limit deviance..
Digital World. Deviance encompasses actions that breach online norms, such as cyberbullying, hacking, and identity theft. Online deviance can be more pervasive due to the anonymity and reach of the internet, allowing behaviors like cyberbullying to occur anytime and anywhere, often with severe consequences..
Comparison of Deviance. Aspect Physical World Digital World Nature of Acts Tangible, visible actions Intangible, often anonymous actions Consequences Legal repercussions, social stigma Digital footprints, online reputation damage Detection Easier to observe and report Often hidden, requires tech tools.
Forms of Deviance and Societal Impact. Physical Deviance: Theft can lead to financial loss and decreased trust in the community. Vandalism can damage property and increase repair costs. Digital Deviance: Cyberbullying can lead to mental health issues and decreased morale. The case of Megan Meier illustrates the severe impact of online harassment, where cyberbullying led to tragic consequences. Hacking can compromise sensitive data, leading to financial and reputational damage..
Theoretical Perspectives on Deviance. Conflict Theory Views deviance as a result of social inequality. Those in power define norms, and deviance arises from the struggle against oppression. The rich often define deviance to maintain control, and laws may disproportionately punish the poor. Symbolic Interaction Theory Focuses on the meanings individuals attach to behaviors. Deviance is learned through social interactions and can vary based on context. This theory suggests that deviance is not inherent in the behavior but is a result of social labeling and interactions..
Impact of Theories on Digital Deviance. Conflict Theory: Suggests that marginalized groups may engage in deviant behavior as a form of resistance against societal norms imposed by those in power. This can be seen in how digital platforms can amplify voices that challenge traditional power structures. Symbolic Interaction Theory: Indicates that online communities can shape perceptions of deviance, leading to different interpretations of actions based on context and social interactions. The social construction of deviance is evident in how online behaviors are labeled and perceived..
Implications for Your Store. Impact of Digital Deviance: Increased risk of data breaches can possibly lead to loss of customer trust and financial repercussions. Negative online reviews due to deviant behaviors can harm the store's reputation..
Managing Deviance in Daily Operations. Implement Training: Educate employees on recognizing and addressing deviant behaviors, both physical and digital. Enhance Security: Invest in updated technology and cybersecurity measures to protect against digital threats. New technologies can help monitor and restrict deviant behaviors, such as cyberloafing, during work hours.4 Establish Clear Policies: Create guidelines for acceptable behavior in both physical and online environments. Encourage Reporting: Foster an environment where employees feel safe reporting deviant behaviors without fear of retaliation..
Reference. https://eujap.uniri.hr/cyberbullying-moral-responsibility-and-social-networking-lessons-from-the-megan-meier-tragedy/ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4126576/#:~:text=Adolescents%20who%20are%20targeted%20via,its%20associated%20harms%20are%20discussed..