Can you contrast biosocial, psychological and sociological explanations of deviance in brief

1 answer

Biosocial explanations of deviance suggest that certain biological factors, such as genetics or brain abnormalities, contribute to an individual's propensity for engaging in deviant behavior. For example, individuals with certain genetic markers or hormonal imbalances may be more prone to aggression or impulsivity, leading to deviant actions.

Psychological explanations of deviance focus on individual personality traits, experiences, or mental disorders as drivers of deviant behavior. For instance, individuals with antisocial personality disorder may lack empathy or have a disregard for societal norms, leading them to engage in criminal activities or other forms of deviance.

Sociological explanations of deviance emphasize the impact of social factors and socialization processes on deviant behavior. This approach suggests that deviance is a product of unequal power dynamics, socialization processes, and societal structures that create opportunities for deviant behavior. For instance, strain theory posits that individuals may engage in deviance when they experience a disconnect between their goals and the means available to achieve them, leading to frustration and resorting to deviant means.

In summary, whereas biosocial explanations of deviance focus on biological factors, psychological explanations emphasize individual personality traits or mental disorders, and sociological explanations highlight the impact of social factors and structures. These approaches provide different perspectives on the causes of deviance and serve as complementary lenses for understanding and addressing deviant behavior in society.