Deviance

Noun

Definition: The state or quality of being deviant or departing from the norm.

Synonyms: Abnormality, Aberration, Deviation, Nonconformity

Antonyms: Conformity, Normality

Examples:

The artist's unique style was seen as a deviance from traditional techniques.
The child's behavior was considered a deviance from societal norms.

Mnemonics:

"Deviance" sounds similar to "different," emphasizing the concept of being different from the norm.
Think of "di-" (meaning apart or away) and "variance" (meaning difference) to remember the idea of departing from the norm.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "deviance" comes from the Latin word "deviare," meaning to turn or stray from the path.

Historical Usage:

The concept of deviance has been studied in various fields such as sociology and criminology to understand behavior that is considered abnormal or divergent from established norms.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Deviance is in the eye of the beholder."

Explanation:

The perception of deviance varies from person to person, depending on their own beliefs, values, and cultural norms. What may be considered deviant by one individual or group may be seen as acceptable or even valued by another.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing deviance with illegality or immorality.

Explanation:

While deviant behavior can involve actions that are illegal or morally frowned upon, it is important to note that not all deviant behavior is necessarily illegal or immoral. Deviance simply refers to behavior that deviates from established norms, which can encompass a wide range of actions, attitudes, or beliefs.