Which statement is true regarding deviance?

Deviant behavior is defined primarily as behavior that violates social norms. This encompasses actions that are considered unacceptable or inappropriate within a given society or group. Social norms are the unwritten rules that govern the behavior of individuals within a community, and when someone behaves in a manner that is inconsistent with these norms, it is classified as deviant. This definition is broad and not limited to criminal behavior; it includes a wide range of actions from minor social infractions to serious offenses.

Understanding deviance in this way highlights its connection to the social context, emphasizing that what is considered deviant can vary widely across different societies and cultures. This flexibility of the concept shows how it evolves with societal changes and illustrates its importance in studying social dynamics and group behaviors.