Have you ever heard the terms primary, secondary, and tertiary deviance before? If not, no need to worry. You’re not alone as these terms are commonly used in the fields of sociology and criminology. But what do they even mean? Well, let me break it down for you.
Simply put, primary deviance refers to the initial act of violating a social norm, such as breaking a law or engaging in deviant behavior. Secondary deviance, on the other hand, occurs when a person begins to identify with their deviant behavior and sees it as a part of their identity. This can lead to a cycle of continued deviance and even further criminal behavior. Lastly, tertiary deviance is the process of individuals or groups attempting to redefine what is considered deviant or normal behavior. This can often be seen in the form of social movements or political actions aimed at changing societal norms.
Understanding the difference between primary, secondary, and tertiary deviance is crucial in order to fully comprehend the impact of deviant behavior on individuals and society as a whole. By recognizing the different stages, we can better address and prevent further deviance, while also promoting acceptance and understanding of those who may identify as deviant. So, the next time you hear these terms thrown around, you can confidently join in on the conversation and understand what everyone’s talking about.
Defining deviance in sociology
Deviance is a term used to describe behavior that violates the norms of a particular society or group. In sociology, deviance is not necessarily viewed as negative or positive but rather as behavior that goes against societal expectations. This can encompass a wide range of actions, from minor infractions such as jaywalking, to more serious offenses like theft or murder. Deviance can be broken down into primary, secondary, and tertiary categories based on the level of response from society and the individual’s relationship to the behavior.
Subtopics:
- Primary deviance
- Secondary deviance
- Tertiary deviance
Primary deviance
The term primary deviance is used to describe the initial act of deviance, which may be a one-time occurrence. It is usually not perceived as a major violation of norms and typically does not result in negative consequences for the individual. For example, if someone experiments with drugs once in their lifetime, this would be considered primary deviance. Society may respond by labeling the person as a drug user, but the individual themselves may not identify with this label or see their behavior as an ongoing issue.
Secondary deviance
Secondary deviance is characterized by repeated and prolonged exposure to deviant behavior, resulting in a more significant impact on the individual’s identity or sense of self. This is where the label of “deviant” becomes more ingrained and internalized. Individuals who engage in secondary deviance may begin to identify with the deviant label and see themselves as outsiders in society. This can lead to further deviant behavior and a more significant response from society. For example, someone who shoplifts repeatedly may begin to see themselves as a thief and continue this behavior as a result.
Tertiary deviance
Tertiary deviance occurs when individuals who have been labeled as deviant reject the label and attempt to reintegrate into mainstream society by redefining their behavior as acceptable. The individual may reject societal norms and develop their own sets of values and beliefs in an effort to avoid further stigmatization. This can also be seen as a form of resistance to societal expectations and norms. For example, someone who is publicly shamed for their drug use may reject the label of “drug addict” and instead identify as a member of a counterculture that rejects mainstream values.
In conclusion
| Primary Deviance: | Initial act of deviance |
|---|---|
| Secondary Deviance: | Repeated and prolonged exposure to deviant behavior |
| Tertiary Deviance: | Rejection of the deviant label and development of alternative beliefs and values |
Understanding the different categories of deviance can provide insight into how societal reactions to deviant behavior can shape an individual’s identity and sense of self. By recognizing the role of societal labels in shaping our perceptions of ourselves and others, we can work towards reducing stigmatization and promoting acceptance of diversity.
Types of Deviance
Deviance is a concept that describes behaviors or actions that go against social norms. These norms include laws, customs, and conventions that guide social behavior. In the study of deviance, there are three types of deviance: primary, secondary, and tertiary deviance. Each type of deviance is distinct and has different characteristics.
Characteristics of Primary Deviance
- Primary deviance is the initial act of deviance, which may not necessarily involve breaking social norms.
- It is a common occurrence and typically seen as a minor infraction.
- Primary deviance is usually ignored or dealt with informally, without any significant consequences.
- Examples of primary deviance include skipping school, underage drinking, and smoking marijuana.
Characteristics of Secondary Deviance
Secondary deviance is a more severe form of deviance that occurs as a result of societal reactions to primary deviance.
- Secondary deviance involves individuals who repeatedly engage in deviant behavior to resist the negative societal labels associated with the initial act.
- Individuals who engage in secondary deviance typically identify themselves as deviants or outsiders.
- Secondary deviance can often lead to more severe consequences, such as social exclusion or legal repercussions.
- Examples of secondary deviance include chronic drug addiction, repeated theft, and other persistent criminal behavior.
Characteristics of Tertiary Deviance
Tertiary deviance is the rejection of societal norms and values altogether.
- The person involved in tertiary deviance takes on a new definition of normal and no longer sees their actions as deviant.
- Tertiary deviance is the most severe form of deviance and can lead to complete social exclusion.
- Examples of tertiary deviance include cults or extremist groups that reject mainstream society and societal norms altogether.
Conclusion
Understanding the different types of deviance is essential, as it allows for a more nuanced approach to dealing with deviant behavior. Primary, secondary, and tertiary deviance are distinct, and each type has its characteristics and consequences. By understanding the differences between these types of deviance, we can better understand deviant behavior and possibly prevent it from escalating.
| Type of Deviance | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Primary Deviance | Initial act of deviance that may not involve breaking social norms, commonly ignored or dealt with informally |
| Secondary Deviance | Occurs as a result of societal reactions to primary deviance, involves repeated deviant behavior as a form of resistance to negative societal labels |
| Tertiary Deviance | Rejection of societal norms and values altogether, most severe form of deviance that can lead to complete social exclusion |
Overall, the study of deviance is crucial in understanding social norms and behaviors. By studying the different types of deviance, we can better understand societal reactions to deviant behavior and potentially find ways to prevent such behavior from escalating.
Primary Deviance in Sociology
Primary deviance refers to the initial and situational act of deviance committed by an individual that is relatively common and not yet publicly labeled as deviant behavior. This deviance often goes unnoticed since it does not violate any norms or values at first glance. For instance, smoking, drinking, and taking drugs are commonly practiced by individuals in different societies.
As such, primary deviance is often viewed as a normal behavior or a response to situational circumstances. However, this behavior can escalate into more severe forms of deviance if it persists and attracts social labeling or negative stigmatization.
Key Characteristics of Primary Deviance
- It is situational and limited to specific circumstances.
- It does not attract negative sanctions or labeling from society.
- It is often viewed as a common or normal behavior.
Primary Deviance versus Secondary and Tertiary Deviance
Unlike primary deviance, secondary deviance entails repeated deviant behavior, which is often a response to social labeling. This persistent deviance is characterized by a continuous commitment to deviant behavior, leading to a new self-perception, identity, and lifestyle. As such, individuals who engage in secondary deviance are often stigmatized or labeled by society and face negative sanctions or consequences.
Tertiary deviance, on the other hand, involves the rejection of the stigmatizing label through efforts to normalize or legitimate the deviant behavior. This concept involves the active redefinition or relabeling of the deviant behavior as normal, positive, or even desirable.
The Impact of Primary Deviance
Primary deviance has various consequences, depending on its context, severity, and duration. When done in moderation, primary deviance may have no significant negative consequences on an individual’s life. However, the persistent engagement in primary deviance may lead to secondary or tertiary deviance, with potentially detrimental consequences on an individual’s reputation, relationships, and psychological well-being.
| Consequences of Primary Deviance | Description |
|---|---|
| Possible escalation | Primary deviance may escalate the severity and frequency of deviant behavior, leading to secondary or tertiary deviance. |
| Labeling and stigma | Individuals engaging in primary deviance may be labeled or stigmatized by society, leading to negative consequences such as isolation, exclusion, or discrimination. |
| Psychological impact | Due to the potential negative consequences of primary deviance, individuals may experience psychological distress, such as anxiety, guilt, or shame. |
Therefore, individuals should be aware of the potential consequences of their primary deviance and seek support or intervention if necessary to avoid escalating into secondary or tertiary deviance.
Characteristics of Primary Deviance
Primary deviance is the initial act of deviance that an individual commits. It usually occurs without much thought and is usually temporary. Below are some of the characteristics of primary deviance:
- Non-serious: Primary deviance is often minor and non-serious in nature. It could be something as simple as talking back to a teacher or breaking curfew once.
- Not part of a deviant lifestyle: Primary deviance is a one-time occurrence and does not reflect a person’s overall behavior or lifestyle. For example, a person who has never experimented with drugs but tries marijuana once does not become a drug addict.
- Not organized: Primary deviance is usually not pre-planned or organized. Instead, it happens spontaneously or impulsively.
Primary deviance can be a result of various factors such as peer pressure, curiosity, boredom, or rebellion. It is important to note that primary deviance only becomes a problem when it leads to secondary deviance; otherwise, it is harmless and a normal part of human behavior.
Secondary Deviance in Sociology
In the context of sociology, secondary deviance refers to the process by which an individual or a group, after being labeled as deviant, accepts this label as a part of their identity, and then goes on to behave in ways that are consistent with this label. The label of deviance can be given by various agents of social control, such as family members, peers, or formal authorities such as the police or the legal system.
According to Howard Becker’s labeling theory, deviance is not an inherent quality of an act, but rather a consequence of the application of a label by others. Once an individual has been labeled as deviant, they may start to see themselves in terms of this label, and internalize it as a part of their identity. This can lead to a vicious cycle, in which the individual engages in more deviant behavior in response to the label, which then reinforces the label, and so on.
- Examples of secondary deviance:
- A teenager who is caught shoplifting may begin to see themselves as a “criminal” and start to steal more often, in part because they believe that this is what is expected of them.
- An individual who is diagnosed with a mental illness may begin to see themselves as “sick” and thus start to behave in ways that are consistent with this label.
- A person who has served time in prison may have difficulty reintegrating into society, and may continue to engage in criminal behavior simply because others continue to see them as a “criminal” and treat them as such.
It is worth noting that secondary deviance is not inevitable. While the label of deviance can be a powerful force, some individuals are able to resist it and find ways to disengage from deviant behavior. For example, an individual who is labeled as an alcoholic may seek treatment and eventually recover, rather than continuing to drink excessively.
Overall, secondary deviance is an important concept in sociology, as it highlights the role that social labels can play in shaping our identities and behavior. By understanding the process of secondary deviance, we can better understand how individuals become labeled as deviant, and how we can work to prevent this process from occurring.
Characteristics of Secondary Deviance
Secondary deviance is a term first introduced by Edwin Lemert to describe the process by which a person’s occasional deviant behavior becomes an entrenched part of their lifestyle and personal identity. Below are some of the key characteristics of secondary deviance:
- Normalization of deviance: In secondary deviance, the deviant behavior becomes normalized and rationalized by the individual engaging in it. They may convince themselves that their behavior is acceptable and even necessary, and may surround themselves with others who share their deviant behavior.
- Stigmatization: As a result of the deviant behavior becoming a part of their identity, individuals engaging in secondary deviance may experience stigmatization from society that becomes internalized. They may feel shame and guilt, which can further entrench their deviant behavior.
- Escalation of behavior: When deviant behavior goes unchecked, it can escalate in frequency and severity. This can lead to more damaging consequences for the individual and those around them.
A better understanding of secondary deviance can be gained by comparing it to primary deviance. In primary deviance, a person may engage in deviant behavior, but it does not become a part of their identity. They may feel guilt or remorse but do not see themselves as deviant. In contrast, secondary deviance involves the internalization of deviant behaviors, leading to a self-identification as deviant.
It is important to note, however, that not all individuals who engage in deviant behavior will experience secondary deviance. The process is complex and multifaceted, influenced by individual and societal factors.
To further understand the differences between primary, secondary, and tertiary deviance, it can be helpful to view them in a table:
| Aspect of Deviance | Primary Deviance | Secondary Deviance | Tertiary Deviance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frequency | Occasional | Frequent | Chronic |
| Identity | Not a part of self-identification | Part of self-identification | Resistance to societal labels |
| Social Response | Disapproval or indifference | Stigmatization and negative consequences | Rejection of societal norms and values |
Understanding primary, secondary, and tertiary deviance can provide valuable insights into the complexities of deviant behavior and its impacts on individuals and society as a whole.
Tertiary Deviance in Sociology
Tertiary deviance is a theoretical concept in the field of sociology that refers to the ways in which individuals and groups respond to the stigmatization of their deviant behavior. It is a response to the social control measures taken by society to manage and regulate deviance, namely primary and secondary deviance. Tertiary deviance can take many forms, such as seeking to redefine what constitutes deviance or rejecting the label of deviant altogether.
- Tertiary deviance can be seen as a form of resistance against dominant social norms and values. It is a way for individuals and groups to assert their autonomy and claim agency in the face of stigmatization and marginalization.
- One common form of tertiary deviance is to challenge the authority and legitimacy of those who define and regulate what is considered deviant behavior. For example, individuals and groups who engage in activities that are criminalized or stigmatized may challenge the legitimacy of the laws and social norms that label them as deviant.
- Tertiary deviance can also involve seeking to redefine what constitutes deviant behavior. For example, the LGBTQ+ community has engaged in efforts to destigmatize same-sex relationships and challenge the social norms that define them as deviant.
Another aspect of tertiary deviance is the formation of subcultures and countercultures that reject dominant societal norms and values. These subcultures may develop their own norms, values, and practices that are in opposition to the mainstream, and may even create alternative institutions and systems of social control.
Tertiary deviance is an important concept in understanding the dynamics of power and resistance in society. It highlights the ways in which individuals and groups respond to efforts to regulate and control their behavior, and the ways in which they seek to claim agency and assert their autonomy in the face of stigmatization and marginalization.
| Tertiary Deviance | Primary Deviance | Secondary Deviance |
|---|---|---|
| Response to social control measures | Initial deviant behavior | Intensification of deviant behavior |
| Challenge to dominant norms and values | Not necessarily intentional | Occurs in response to labeling and stigmatization |
| May involve formation of subcultures/countercultures | May not be recognized or labeled as deviant | May involve identification with deviant subculture |
Tertiary deviance is an ongoing process that can continue over the course of an individual’s lifetime. It can involve a range of strategies and tactics, from individual acts of resistance to collective movements for social change. Understanding tertiary deviance is crucial for developing a nuanced understanding of the ways in which power, agency, and social control intersect in modern society.
What is the difference between primary secondary and tertiary deviance?
FAQ 1: What is primary deviance?
Primary deviance is an initial act of deviance that doesn’t have long-lasting effects on an individual’s identity or social status. It refers to the initial act itself rather than the reaction of society to the act.
FAQ 2: What is secondary deviance?
Secondary deviance is the result of societal reactions to the primary deviance. This leads to the individual taking on an identity as a deviant and developing a deviant lifestyle and behaviors. It can lead to criminal behavior and amplify the negative stigma surrounding the individual.
FAQ 3: What is tertiary deviance?
Tertiary deviance is when a deviant individual or group reject societal norms and create their own values and norms. They see their deviant behavior as normal and even desirable, and redefine themselves as different from the mainstream society. This results in the creation of subcultures.
FAQ 4: Can these types of deviance occur simultaneously?
Yes, it is possible for an individual to experience all three types of deviance at different times in their life or even at the same time. For example, an individual may start with primary deviance, then experience secondary deviance, and eventually progress to tertiary deviance.
FAQ 5: How are these concepts used in criminology?
These concepts are used in criminology as a way to understand the progression of deviant behavior and the impact of societal reactions on an individual. It helps to identify the factors that contribute to deviant behavior and provides a framework for intervention.
A Final Word
We hope these FAQs have helped you understand the difference between primary, secondary, and tertiary deviance. Remember, these are not set stages and can occur in any order or concurrently. By understanding the progression of deviant behavior, we can work towards preventing it and intervening when necessary. Thank you for reading, and we look forward to seeing you again soon!