CJS-3007 Deviance, Crime and Law
This course will explore how "social deviance" is defined and by whom. The positivist and constructionist perspectives will be explored in an attempt to understand the creation of social norms resulting in the promulgation of laws that control society. Consideration is given to the processes of social labeling and stigmatization of "deviant" persons and groups, the development of a "deviant identity," together with an examination of the major theories which seek to explain "deviant" behavior. The course will also explore the interaction between law and society (i.e., the relationship of law to social structure, social change). [Criminal Justice Concentration Requirement]