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Essay / Example of deviance in society
Deviance is a concept that has been widely studied in sociology and criminology. It refers to behavior that goes against the norms, values and expectations of society. Examples of deviant behavior can range from minor offenses such as jaywalking to more serious crimes such as murder. In this essay, we will explore an example of deviance in society, focusing on its history, debates, evolution, and resolution. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Throughout history, societies have had rules and norms that govern behavior. Deviance occurs when individuals or groups violate these norms, leading to social disapproval and sometimes punishment. The study of deviance dates back to early sociologists such as Emile Durkheim and Robert Merton, who sought to understand why some people conform to societal norms while others deviate from them. An example of deviance in society is drug addiction. Drug addiction involves the compulsive use of substances despite its negative consequences, and it is considered deviant because it goes against norms of sobriety and self-control. The debate around drug addiction focuses on whether it is a moral failing or a medical problem. Some argue that addiction is a choice that individuals make, while others view it as a disease that requires treatment. The development of the theme of drug addiction as a form of deviance has evolved over time. In the past, drug addiction was often criminalized, with addicts punished for their behavior. However, as our understanding of addiction has grown, we have begun to treat it as a health problem rather than a criminal problem. This has led to the development of programs and policies aimed at helping addicts recover and reintegrate into society. A notable example of the evolving understanding of drug addiction can be seen in the United States' War on Drugs. The War on Drugs was a government initiative to reduce the illegal drug trade and combat drug addiction. However, critics argue that the approach taken in the war on drugs has criminalized addiction rather than treating it as a health problem. This has led to the mass incarceration of individuals struggling with addiction, with little attention paid to rehabilitation and recovery. In recent years, there has been a shift toward treating drug addiction as a public health crisis rather than a criminal justice issue. Initiatives such as drug courts, which aim to provide treatment rather than punish drug offenders, have gained traction. These programs aim to address the root causes of addiction, such as trauma and mental health issues, and provide support for individuals to overcome their addiction. Research in the field of addiction studies has also contributed to our understanding of substance abuse as a form of deviance. . Studies have shown that addiction is often linked to genetic, environmental and psychological factors, rather than simple moral failure. This research has helped destigmatize addiction and promote a more compassionate, evidence-based approach to solving the problem. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now...