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Deviance In Erikson's Wayward Puritans

336 Words2 Pages
In Wayward Puritans Erikson argues that there is no notable difference between people who participate in deviant acts and those who do not. Deviance therefore is a social construction; it is defined by what society deems normal. What is considered deviant in one society is not necessarily deviant in another. The label of deviance is conferred upon certain behaviors, often by those in power. Dominant groups in society set expectations for what is acceptable behavior, which helps to keep people in line with dominant group expectations. In this respect, we could argue that certain behaviors are considered deviant not because they are inherently wrong but because powerful groups in our society label them as deviant and can impose their morals
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