Which of the following theories is included under critical conceptions of deviance?

Which of the following theories is included under critical conceptions of deviance?

• A. Structural Functionalism
• B. Feminist Theory
• C. Symbolic Interactionism
• D. Behaviorism

Answer: (B)

Feminist Theory is a critical conception of deviance because it challenges traditional notions of deviance that often overlook or misrepresent the experiences and behaviors of women and marginalized groups. This theory examines how gender, power dynamics, and societal structures contribute to the labeling of certain behaviors as deviant, focusing on issues such as patriarchy and gender inequality. By prioritizing the perspectives of women and addressing how social norms are shaped by gendered expectations, Feminist Theory provides insight into how deviance is socially constructed and varies across different contexts and identities. In contrast, the other theories mentioned do not fall under the critical conceptions of deviance. Structural Functionalism focuses on how social structures maintain stability and harmony, often viewing deviance as a necessary component for societal functioning rather than critiquing underlying power relations. Symbolic Interactionism examines the meanings and definitions individuals attach to behaviors, yet it does not inherently critique the structures of power that influence societal definitions of deviance. Behaviorism, on the other hand, is primarily focused on observable behaviors and their conditioning rather than the social constructs and power dynamics that frame our understanding of deviance.

Feminist Theory is a critical conception of deviance because it challenges traditional notions of deviance that often overlook or misrepresent the experiences and behaviors of women and marginalized groups. This theory examines how gender, power dynamics, and societal structures contribute to the labeling of certain behaviors as deviant, focusing on issues such as patriarchy and gender inequality. By prioritizing the perspectives of women and addressing how social norms are shaped by gendered expectations, Feminist Theory provides insight into how deviance is socially constructed and varies across different contexts and identities.

In contrast, the other theories mentioned do not fall under the critical conceptions of deviance. Structural Functionalism focuses on how social structures maintain stability and harmony, often viewing deviance as a necessary component for societal functioning rather than critiquing underlying power relations. Symbolic Interactionism examines the meanings and definitions individuals attach to behaviors, yet it does not inherently critique the structures of power that influence societal definitions of deviance. Behaviorism, on the other hand, is primarily focused on observable behaviors and their conditioning rather than the social constructs and power dynamics that frame our understanding of deviance.