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Deviance and Social Inequality

This topic examines how social inequality influences perceptions and reactions to deviant behavior, highlighting the differential treatment of petty thieves versus corporate criminals. Conflict theory is central to this discussion, emphasizing that those in power often avoid deviant labels due to their social status, which allows them to escape consequences for their actions. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for students as it reveals how societal norms can reflect and reinforce structures of power and inequality.

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1

Which of the following best describes how subcultures can influence patterns of deviance within a society?

Subcultures can have their own rules and beliefs that differ from the main society. Other options are incorrect because This idea suggests that subcul...

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2

How do marginalized groups often influence the formation of subcultures within society?

Marginalized groups create their own norms and practices. Other options are incorrect because Some might think that marginalized groups just follow ma...

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3

How do subcultures contribute to perceptions of deviance within the context of social inequality in the justice system?

Subcultures have their own rules and values. Other options are incorrect because This idea suggests that subcultures don't matter at all; This option ...

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4

How does labeling theory explain the disparity in social control mechanisms applied to different social groups, particularly regarding deviance and justice inequality?

Labeling theory shows that society often views marginalized groups as more deviant. Other options are incorrect because This answer suggests everyone ...

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5

According to conflict theory, how does stigma interact with subcultures in perpetuating social inequality?

Stigma makes it harder for subcultures to succeed. Other options are incorrect because This answer suggests stigma helps subcultures fit in, but that'...

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6

What is considered deviant behavior in a society that values punctuality?

Being late shows a lack of respect for others' time. Other options are incorrect because Some might think helping others is bad, but it's actually a g...

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7

Which of the following accurately describes the relationship between deviance and social norms?

Deviance means acting in ways that go against social norms. Other options are incorrect because Some people think deviance only means crime; This opti...

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8

Which of the following best describes the relationship between deviance and social inequality?

People from lower social classes often get labeled as deviants more than those from higher classes. Other options are incorrect because This suggests ...

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9

Arrange the following concepts in the correct sequence to illustrate how social inequality influences perceptions of deviance: A) Differential treatment of corporate criminals, B) The power dynamics in society, C) Labeling of petty thieves as deviant, D) Conflict theory's analysis of societal norms.

Power dynamics shape how society views different actions. Other options are incorrect because This option suggests starting with conflict theory, whic...

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10

How does social inequality influence perceptions of deviant behavior?

People with less money often face harsher punishment for their actions. Other options are incorrect because This idea suggests that rich people are al...

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11

What underlying cause contributes to the differential treatment of petty thieves versus corporate criminals in society?

People often treat offenders differently based on their social status. Other options are incorrect because Some might think that if a crime is seen by...

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12

In the context of deviance and social inequality, individuals in power often escape consequences for their actions due to their ____, which allows them to maintain their social status and avoid being labeled as deviant.

Privilege means having special advantages that others do not. Other options are incorrect because Some might think morality, or knowing right from wro...

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13

A wealthy CEO is caught embezzling funds from their company, but instead of facing significant legal consequences, they receive a fine that is a fraction of their wealth. In contrast, a low-income individual is arrested for shoplifting a small item. How does this scenario illustrate the concepts of deviance and social inequality?

The CEO gets a lighter punishment because they are rich and powerful. Other options are incorrect because This suggests everyone is treated the same, ...

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14

Which of the following scenarios best illustrates the differential treatment of deviance based on social status?

This example shows how people are treated differently based on their wealth. Other options are incorrect because This option suggests that adults are ...

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15

How does social inequality shape the perception of deviance among different social classes?

Wealthy people are often seen as victims when they break the law. Other options are incorrect because Many believe all bad actions are treated the sam...

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16

Petty theft is to societal condemnation as corporate fraud is to what?

Petty theft often gets a strong reaction from society, like anger. Other options are incorrect because Some think that corporate fraud always leads to...

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17

Which of the following statements accurately reflect the relationship between social inequality and deviance as discussed in the context of conflict theory?

The way we see deviance can strengthen the gaps between different social classes. Other options are incorrect because Many think that rich people face...

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