Introduction
In the field of sociology, the concept of a ‘deviant career’ refers to the path that an individual takes when engaging in deviant behavior. Deviance is any behavior that goes against societal norms and expectations. A deviant career involves a series of actions and choices that deviate from the accepted standards of behavior. In this blog post, we will outline and explain the concept of a deviant career, its stages, and the factors that influence its development.
Stages of a Deviant Career
A deviant career typically consists of several stages, each marked by different factors and experiences. These stages can vary depending on the specific deviant behavior and the individual’s circumstances. The following are the common stages of a deviant career:
Stage 1: Initial Deviance
The first stage of a deviant career involves the initial engagement in deviant behavior. This can be influenced by various factors such as personal circumstances, social environment, and individual characteristics. The individual may feel a sense of rebellion, dissatisfaction, or curiosity that leads them to engage in behavior outside the societal norms.
Stage 2: Identity Formation
During this stage, the individual begins to develop an identity as a deviant. They may start associating with others who engage in similar deviant behavior, forming subcultures or communities. These groups provide support, validation, and a sense of belonging for the individual. The deviant behavior becomes a part of their self-identity, influencing their attitudes, values, and beliefs.
Stage 3: Commitment and Escalation
In this stage, the individual becomes more committed to their deviant behavior and may escalate their actions. They may become more deeply involved in criminal activities, substance abuse, or other forms of deviance. This stage is often marked by increased risk-taking, as the individual becomes more entrenched in the deviant lifestyle.
Stage 4: Social Consequences
As the deviant career progresses, the individual may face social consequences for their actions. This can include legal troubles, strained relationships, social isolation, or stigmatization. The negative consequences can reinforce the individual’s deviant identity and further solidify their commitment to the deviant career. However, it is important to note that not all individuals progress through all stages, and some may be able to exit the deviant career at any point.
Factors Influencing a Deviant Career
Several factors can influence the development and progression of a deviant career. These factors can be categorized into individual, social, and structural factors:
Individual Factors
Individual factors include personal characteristics, experiences, and psychological factors that contribute to the engagement in deviant behavior. These may include a history of trauma, substance abuse, mental health issues, low self-esteem, or a lack of positive role models.
Social Factors
Social factors refer to the influence of the individual’s social environment on their deviant career. This can include peer pressure, exposure to deviant subcultures, family dynamics, and societal attitudes towards deviance. Social factors play a significant role in shaping an individual’s beliefs, values, and behaviors.
Structural Factors
Structural factors refer to the broader social and economic conditions that contribute to the development of deviant careers. These may include poverty, inequality, limited access to education and employment opportunities, and systemic discrimination. Structural factors can create an environment where deviant behavior becomes a means of survival or a response to social disadvantage.
Conclusion
A deviant career is a complex and multifaceted concept that involves the progression of deviant behavior over time. It is influenced by various individual, social, and structural factors. Understanding the stages of a deviant career and the factors that contribute to its development can provide valuable insights into the complexities of deviance and inform strategies for intervention and prevention.
