Functionalist theories of deviance
A)fear that deviance creates the breakdown of society.
B)view deviance as necessary in order to clarify what the norms of society are.
C)believe that punishment of deviance is dysfunctional because it prevents the deviance that is so necessary for society.
D)assume that norms are largely meaningless.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Functionalist theories view deviance as necessary in order to clarify what the norms of society are. Deviance helps to reinforce and clarify the boundaries of acceptable behavior, which ultimately strengthens societal norms and values. Punishment of deviance is seen as necessary to maintain social order and reinforce the importance of these norms.

Functionalist Theories of Deviance