SCC Deviance and Crime 2

Question 1

Which sociologist introduced the concept of 'anomie' to explain deviance as a result of normlessness in society?

Accepted Answer

Émile Durkheim

Answer

Émile Durkheim introduced anomie to describe a condition where social norms break down, leaving individuals without clear guidance on behavior.

Question 2

According to Robert Merton's strain theory, an 'innovator' is someone who:

Accepted Answer

Accepts cultural goals but uses illegitimate means to achieve them

Answer

Merton's innovator accepts the culturally approved goal (e.g., financial success) but resorts to illegitimate means such as theft or fraud.

Question 3

The 'primary deviance' and 'secondary deviance' distinction was developed by:

Accepted Answer

Edwin Lemert

Answer

Edwin Lemert distinguished primary deviance (initial acts) from secondary deviance, which occurs when a person internalizes a deviant identity after being labeled.

Question 4

Which theory argues that crime is committed when the perceived benefits outweigh the costs, and people rationally choose to offend?

Accepted Answer

Rational choice theory

Answer

Rational choice theory holds that offenders weigh potential rewards against risks of detection and punishment before committing a crime.

Question 5

The 'dark figure of crime' refers to:

Accepted Answer

Offenses that are never reported or recorded in official statistics

Answer

The dark figure of crime describes the gap between crimes that actually occur and those officially recorded, since many incidents go unreported.

(SCC) Sociology Certificate Course Practice Test

(SCC) Sociology Certificate Course Practice Test

SCC Deviance and Crime 2