Being Different: The Sociology of Deviant Behavior

This course examines the social and cultural dimensions of being different, resulting in deviant and violent behavior. The class compares and contrasts explanations for deviant and violent behavior utilizing classic and modern sociological theories with an emphasis on group causes and reactions. Some areas to be covered include classic and modern sociological theories, current deviance statistics and social patterns, stigmatization, violent behaviors (murder, rape), and general deviant behavior due to beliefs or traits. A major theme explored is the idea that it is the societal reaction, not necessarily the action or trait, that causes the label of “deviant” or “different” to be applied.