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Deviance: The Functionalist Perspective On Crime

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By definition deviance is the violation of cultural norms, therefore crime is considered a deviance that breaks social norms and laws. Crime itself has been with us since the beginning of human civilization. It is often looked down upon due to the nature of its being. But according to functionalist perspective; society needs crime. If crime did not have any functions, society itself would 've gotten rid of crime altogether. However, crime can also be a threat to social order because it has dysfunctions that can make social life unpredictable. Then again, it is impossible to eliminate crime entirely therefore, it is important to keep crime rates at a minimum level. For instance, a way Mayor de Blasio can decrease crime in New York City is …show more content…
"Studies have found that a range of negative events and conditions increase the likelihood of crime" (Source 4). For instance, child abuse, childhood trauma and negative relationships with peers altogether are linked with crime. Strainful events or experiences can cause anger and frustration, which in turn leads to deviance. Strain is more likely to be linked with crime with individuals with "poor coping skills and resources" (Source 4). Thus, according to the strain theory, the poor are affected the most because of their lack of resources and their inability to seek …show more content…
N.p., n.d. Web. 03 June 2016. https://www.boundless.com/sociology/textbooks/boundless-sociology-textbook/deviance-social-control-and-crime-7/the-functionalist-perspective-on-deviance-62/the-functionalist-perspective-on-deviance-374-1779/ "Strain Theories - Criminology - Oxford Bibliographies - Obo." Strain Theories. N.p., n.d. Web. 07 June 2016. http://www.oxfordbibliographies.com/view/document/obo-9780195396607/obo-9780195396607-0005.xml Chapter 5 Deviance, Crime, and Social Control. Deviance, Crime, and Social Control. N.p., n.d. Web. 04 June 2016. http://2012books.lardbucket.org/books/sociology-brief-edition-v1.1/s08-deviance-crime-and-social-cont.html
Crime Causation: Sociological Theories - Strain Theory. - Delinquency, People, Money, and Engage. N.p., n.d. Web. 06 June 2016.

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