Deviant Behavior Vs. Crime

Crime is usually defined simply as a violation of the criminal law. Deviant is a much wider concept than crime and is therefore more difficult to define. Deviant exist in relation to what is considered normal in a society. Crime and deviance are overlapping in categories because criminal acts are often viewed as deviant acts. (Wincup, E. 1999)

Social problems are clearly political problems. They are identified and shaped in an ongoing political process. What is regarded as a problem by one group may not be perceived in this way by another group in society.

The biggest difference between deviant behavior and a crime is, that a crime is against the law, while deviance is only against social norms. A crime has an added characteristic in that a law has been passed against it, making it a crime or criminal offence. Deviation is what is defined as not normal by norms, values, or laws. This could be something like wearing the wrong kind of clothes to a party or killing someone – deviance is behavior that is not seen as acceptable or normal. Examples for deviant behavior (but not criminal):

•

• A child who says he will clean his room after you give them their reward - then he does not. No crime committed, but a mistrust is gained.

• A boyfriend who says he will kill himself if his girlfriend leaves. Manipulative, but no crime.

• putting a permanent outhouse in a residential area Putting a permanent outhouse in a residential area should be a crime, because eventually the sewage will leach into other people properties , possibly contaminating water causing neighbors to get seriously sick.

Examples of crimes (but not deviant):

• smoking