Defining crime and deviance

Start with definitions

The mind map Introduction sets out definitions of crime and deviance. It distinguishes acts that break a society's law from behavior that does not conform to its norms and values. Starting here gives you a basis for comparing the terms as you work through the other resources.

Next, look at a Defining Deviance mind map that covers norms, including folkways. Another map with the same title groups deviance around attitudes, behaviors and conditions. Compare the examples and categories each map uses.

Explore how deviance is constructed

The Constructing Deviance mind map introduces moral entrepreneurs and rule creation. It also mentions institutions, agencies, symbols and communication in the construction of moral meaning. The flashcard study guide on constructing deviance covers moral entrepreneurs and campaigning, giving you another format for studying these ideas.

The Social Construction of Crime offers another perspective. It considers how an act can be treated differently in different situations and places. As you study, compare its examples with the definitions in Introduction.

Move between maps and flashcards

There are no quizzes on this topic page, but you can use the maps and flashcards together. Read a map first, then work through a related deck such as Crime and Deviance: Definitions. Return to the map when you want to check how a term or example fits with the surrounding ideas.

Connect the topic to the unit

Defining crime and deviance is one section of the Crime and Deviance unit in Sociology. The Types of Crime mind map extends the page's definitions with categories including occupational, government, corporate and white-collar crime. Use it to connect the definitions with the types listed on this page.

Choose a resource and begin with the definition you want to explore.