Crime and deviance are complex social phenomena that have been studied and analyzed by various sociological perspectives. This blog post explores the functionalist perspective on crime and deviance, highlighting the adaptive nature of these phenomena in response to societal changes. It discusses the concept of strain theory and how individuals turn to deviant behavior as a response to unattainable goals. It also explores how crime and deviance can serve as mechanisms for social change, challenging existing norms and leading to social reform. However, it acknowledges the criticism of functionalism for neglecting the negative consequences of crime and deviance. Overall, this post provides valuable insights into the functions of crime and deviance while considering their impacts on individuals and society as a whole.