Deviance: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in sociology or criminology to describe behavior that goes against societal norms and expectations, often implying a negative or undesirable act.

• The rise in urban deviance has become a major concern for city officials.
• Deviance in the workplace can disrupt team dynamics and overall productivity.

Applied in psychology or everyday language to describe actions that are unusual and different from what is typically expected or considered normal.

• His aberrant behavior at the party raised several eyebrows.
• Parents were concerned about their child's aberrant behavior in school.

Refers to behavior that deliberately goes against established norms and standards, often implying a positive sense of individuality or innovation.

• Her nonconformity in fashion made her a trendsetter among her peers.
• Nonconformity in the tech industry often leads to groundbreaking innovations.

A sociological term used to describe a condition where norms and values are unclear, leading to a state of normlessness and social instability.

• The rapid modernization of the society led to an increased sense of anomie among its citizens.
• Durkheim's theory of anomie explains the breakdown of social bonds in times of crisis.

Used in social sciences and psychology to describe behaviors that reject or do not conform to societal norms and expectations. It often has a negative connotation.

• His deviance from accepted social practices made him an outcast in his community
• The study focused on criminal deviance

Generally indicates a departure from what is normal or expected. It's often used in scientific contexts or to describe an unusual situation or behavior.

• The sudden drop in temperature was an aberration for this time of year
• His poor performance was an aberration, considering his consistent high scores

Refers to unusual or quirky behavior that is often seen in individuals. It can have a neutral or mildly positive connotation, implying uniqueness.

• His eccentricity made him a favorite among his friends but baffled strangers
• The professor's eccentricity was evident in his colorful bow ties and peculiar habits

Describes something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected, often used in scientific or technical contexts.

• The data showed an anomaly that couldn't be explained by the usual variables
• Seeing a pink dolphin is an anomaly and a rare treat