What is defined as deviant or criminal is dependent upon who is defining. When one attempts to define what is acceptable in society, one should also evaluate reasons why certain behaviour is or is not deemed acceptable. In society, some behaviour is considered to be deviant or criminal and thus a social problem. But not all criminal behaviours are deviant and not all deviance is illegal; abortion is an example of the second. Deviant behaviour can be defined as violating social norms, going against general consensus by ignoring the proverbial moral compass. Criminality on the other hand can be defined as the punishable act of breaking laws. In addition, the definitions of what is deviance or criminal are relative to time, space and culture and these elements affect how social conditions are categorized. Furthermore, consideration must also be given to who defines or determines unacceptability of certain conduct and what deems some behaviour to be classified as deviant or criminal. This essay discusses how society is responsible for the definitions of deviance and criminality.
To determine who is doing the defining, and to assist with the understanding of society and social behaviours, sociological theories can be applied. One such theory, symbolic interactionism, can be applied to gain insight and explain how social constructionism defines deviance or criminality. Symbolic interactionism theory has a micro approach, which focuses on an individual’s role in constructing society. This theory focuses on social interactions and how these interactions impact society and behaviours. These interactions take the form of symbols, for example, words, gestures and body language. Consequently, these symbols or actions are used to communicate meaning. Along with interactions, society makes observations and these observations and interactions teach what is acceptable. As an example, abortion may be considered to be a social problem and frowned upon by some...