How does public perception influence the concept of deviance in society?

Public perception plays a crucial role in shaping what is considered deviant behavior in society. Deviance refers to actions that go against the accepted norms or values of a group. When people see certain behaviors as wrong or unacceptable, those behaviors are labeled as deviant, even if they are not illegal. For example, if a community views graffiti as vandalism, they may see graffiti artists as deviants, while others might see them as creative individuals expressing themselves. Therefore, how society views certain actions can change over time, affecting what is seen as normal or deviant based on public opinion.