There are many diseases and disorders that seem to be developing at a rapid and unexplained rate in this society. Many Americans perceive these to be an illness or a deviant condition. One of the “illnesses” that is very common in our society today is autism. What is autism? How and why has it developed? According to the Autism Science Foundation (ASF), autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), is characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication skills, as well as extremely challenging behaviors. The behaviors include repetitive motor behaviors like, hand flapping, body rocking, insistence on sameness, resistance to change, and in some cases self-injury or aggression. Many individuals with ASD have impairments, although some have low or even above average IQ’s. Thirty to Fifty percent of people with autism also have seizures (ASF.org). Dr. Leo Kanner first described autism in 1943. He reported on children who showed a lack of interest in other people, but they had a highly unusual interest in an inanimate environment (ASF.org). At the time autism was thought to be an early form of schizophrenia. This led to the belief that its onset could be caused by bad parenting or a negative experience ASF.org. Studies have shown this is not the issue. Looking into to autism and the disorders, there are five autism spectrum disorders. These are sometimes called Pervasive Development Disorders (PDD). The disorders are pervasive developmental delay, autism; which is sometimes referred to as classic autism, childhood autism or autistic disorder, asperger syndrome, rett syndrome, and childhood disintegrative disorder (ASF.org).
What causes autism is uncertain. What is supposedly “certain” is that most autism can be detected in infants as young as six to eighteen months (ASF.org). However, in an article by Jeremy Minyard called The Autism Information Epidemic, he says “There are no reliable biological indicators in most cases of autism. Behavioral symptoms vary widely and often overlap with other neurological disorders. The initiative of parents in identifying these symptoms in their own children, and encouraging a doctor to do the same, makes diagnosis of the disorder much more likely”. Many scientists have determined autism comes from genetically based conditions according to the ASF. Scientists are unsure if any environmental triggers may be the cause or the main factor involved with this condition (ASF.org). There are also theories that have become popular in recent years. One of the theories is that autism is due to what is put in a child’s vaccine and food. In the two video clips below, highly rated talk show host Alex Jones breaks this issue down by using declassified government documentation, and reasons behind this issue. In these alarming videos Jones tries to make it clear to your attention. After watching these video clips or reading this blog, I highly recommend that you research and follow up on what Alex Jones is discussing. Most importantly, research the issue of autism. You can also visit infowars.com for further information. Caution, you may receive an awaking.
According to the ASF, autism is four times more likely to affect boys than girls. This is also found in all racial, ethnic, and social groups. In an article by Michelle Diament called Minorities Show More Severe Signs of Autism, it mentions that it is unclear exactly why children from minority backgrounds are diagnosed with autism later. The researchers from this article say it could be related to cultural differences in how people perceive development as a child. Another interesting point mentioned in Diaments article from researchers says “They could not rule out the possibility that there may be biological differences in the manifestation of autism among different ethnic groups contributing to the more pronounced delays observed in children from minority backgrounds”. In relation to deviance, this is an underlining social construction that impacts this illness and perception. Minorities should not be automatically labeled deviant because of a perception or sign of autistic symptoms.
One of my brother’s friends is an African American living with autism. You would not know it if you met him. Throughout the ten years I have known him; he eventually came out and told his friends he was autistic. At first we laughed in disbelief thinking there was no way he could have been autistic. One night I asked both of his parents about his condition and found out it was a fact. For having autism, his IQ is fairly high. He is a graduate of the University of Washington. This is a prime example of the misconceptions about autism. Society has this belief that those living with this condition are not able to do what others can. The reality is, as we learn more about autism truth gets revealed.
Word Count: 784
Work Cited:
http://contexts.org/discoveries/the-autism-information-epidemic/
http://mtdiablosped.blogspot.com/2012/02/minorities-show-more-severe-signs-of.html
http://autismsciencefoundation.org/
Sunday, March 25, 2012
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Film Review 4: Generation Rx
The film Generation Rx is an informative film about the result of medication and the effect they have on children in our society. According to the film the marketing of prescribed drugs had a 400% increase in mood altering. America is also the largest supplier of Ritalin and other prescribed drugs in the world. Billions of dollars were given to pharmaceutical companies to drug children. This film takes a look into how this epidemic occurred and the consequences brought on the American society.
The main argument to support the thesis of this film is that the chemicals that are in these drugs are blocking and damaging the normal functions of how the brain is suppose to work. One other point mentioned in the film was that these drugs were never meant to be for or inside children.
This film relates to the course because the class has been discussing deviant minds. In the film, deviant minds are considered the children with ADHD. In the early findings of ADHD it was not considered a disease but rather a kid being a kid. Decades later this diagnosis became common psychiatric problem among children America. Kids with “considered” disorders or behavior problems are labeled as deviant in society and are presumed not to have brighter futures.
The argument I found most convincing children and committing suicide and have violent behavior problems. Another fact that from the film was the effects in had on both children and adults. The FDA did a poor job in finding out what the causes of the effects were. In a short time of taking the drugs people would get awful thoughts and nightmares.
There was nothing I felt that was least convincing in this film. Parents have to ask themselves “Do I really need to get my child on a drug to get his/her mind functioning like other kids?” It is not only the prescribed drugs in America that is harming our society; it is also what is in our food.
I would study the FDA council and find out what is really going on. I would do this by focusing on the studies conducted, where money has gone, and how and why these drugs are still being prescribed. The end result would need to indictments and prison sentences. There is no excuse for drugs to be placed on shelves or behind counters without clear and sufficient studies on the effects they have. This is big business created by the “elite” above government to defuse and betray the American people.
The main argument to support the thesis of this film is that the chemicals that are in these drugs are blocking and damaging the normal functions of how the brain is suppose to work. One other point mentioned in the film was that these drugs were never meant to be for or inside children.
This film relates to the course because the class has been discussing deviant minds. In the film, deviant minds are considered the children with ADHD. In the early findings of ADHD it was not considered a disease but rather a kid being a kid. Decades later this diagnosis became common psychiatric problem among children America. Kids with “considered” disorders or behavior problems are labeled as deviant in society and are presumed not to have brighter futures.
The argument I found most convincing children and committing suicide and have violent behavior problems. Another fact that from the film was the effects in had on both children and adults. The FDA did a poor job in finding out what the causes of the effects were. In a short time of taking the drugs people would get awful thoughts and nightmares.
There was nothing I felt that was least convincing in this film. Parents have to ask themselves “Do I really need to get my child on a drug to get his/her mind functioning like other kids?” It is not only the prescribed drugs in America that is harming our society; it is also what is in our food.
I would study the FDA council and find out what is really going on. I would do this by focusing on the studies conducted, where money has gone, and how and why these drugs are still being prescribed. The end result would need to indictments and prison sentences. There is no excuse for drugs to be placed on shelves or behind counters without clear and sufficient studies on the effects they have. This is big business created by the “elite” above government to defuse and betray the American people.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Film Review 3: Tough Guise
The main thesis of the film “Tough Guise” is the men need to be masculine, tough and violent to be recognized as a real man. Anything feminine or gay is to be hated and looked down upon in order for the male to prove what it take to be a man in society, One other feature of this film that is boldly emphasized is the male body and physical strength a man must have in order to gain respect. In many ways this is through violence.
The main arguments to support the thesis were in the opening minutes of the film when a group of men were asked the meaning of a real man. Many of them said the same descriptions, like tough and masculine. The men were then asked the consequences that come with not being masculine or fitting the male perception. They said words like “Soft, fag or pussy” would be used to describe the male not fitting the perceptions.
This film relates to the course because we have continually discussing deviance and deviant behavior. In the book Readings in Deviant Behavior there is a section called “What Triggers School Shootings?” which covers the bullying of homophobic people in high schools. In this chapter it mentions that most violence is committed by men. In relation to the film and the course, it gives the notion that men need to be a certain way because that is how society wants it. What we see in media and advertising really hints that this is the ways things are supposed to be when in fact they aren’t.
The point I found most convincing was action figures scene. They compare 40 years of masculine development to action figures like, GI Joe, Batman and Superman. It is impossible to the male figure to look like that. It shows the deception in sizes and ability which gives a false perception to boys that that’s how a man looks and acts. This relates the class discussion about deviant bodies and how society views people based on their size and ability. What I found least convincing was that movies and music were the problem. They do contribute very little in part to the problem. Not all movies and films are impacting the society.
If I were to conduct a study around this I would conduct it around boys aged 5 -18. I would study the young boy’s perception of a “real man”. Then study their perceptions when they become 18. I would like to see the differences on the issue of masculinity. The age difference and years of being in this society should make the study more legitimate.
The main arguments to support the thesis were in the opening minutes of the film when a group of men were asked the meaning of a real man. Many of them said the same descriptions, like tough and masculine. The men were then asked the consequences that come with not being masculine or fitting the male perception. They said words like “Soft, fag or pussy” would be used to describe the male not fitting the perceptions.
This film relates to the course because we have continually discussing deviance and deviant behavior. In the book Readings in Deviant Behavior there is a section called “What Triggers School Shootings?” which covers the bullying of homophobic people in high schools. In this chapter it mentions that most violence is committed by men. In relation to the film and the course, it gives the notion that men need to be a certain way because that is how society wants it. What we see in media and advertising really hints that this is the ways things are supposed to be when in fact they aren’t.
The point I found most convincing was action figures scene. They compare 40 years of masculine development to action figures like, GI Joe, Batman and Superman. It is impossible to the male figure to look like that. It shows the deception in sizes and ability which gives a false perception to boys that that’s how a man looks and acts. This relates the class discussion about deviant bodies and how society views people based on their size and ability. What I found least convincing was that movies and music were the problem. They do contribute very little in part to the problem. Not all movies and films are impacting the society.
If I were to conduct a study around this I would conduct it around boys aged 5 -18. I would study the young boy’s perception of a “real man”. Then study their perceptions when they become 18. I would like to see the differences on the issue of masculinity. The age difference and years of being in this society should make the study more legitimate.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Film Review 2: Murderball
The film Murderball is about the United States and the Canadian Paralympics quad rugby team. This film focuses on how people with disabilities and how there are just as capable and as able bodied people. This film shows disabled people in comparison to any other athlete. The different backgrounds, relationships and struggles the athletes have been through in life are some of the most interesting points in this film.
The film Murderball really tries to remove the stigma from individuals with impairments. Having a disability is seen as deviant in this society. In “You’re Not a Retard, You’re just Wise,” Steven Taylor says “A stigma is not merely a difference but a characteristic that deeply discredits a person’s moral character.” (Taylor, 2000). One other interesting point that the film focuses on is sexual intercourse and the ability to have sex. Another focus is about Mark Zupan and how he just wants to be treated equal despite that he is in a wheel chair. Society gest the notion that everybody who is disabled gets looked down on.
The thesis of this film relates to the course because we have been discussing deviant bodies and how society portrays them. A deviant body or anything outside the norms is considered deviant to society. You are treated and looked at differently by others.
One of the points I found most convincing was how the reality of not being able to walk was not being realized or coped with at first. The belief that one may walk again was still believed. But it took time to settle in with reality that walking will never happen again. Another point that is convincing about Murderball was the emotional affects that individuals had from being judged and dehumanized. The fact that not everyone in a wheelchair wants to walk was also a good point. The “Supercrip” blog relates to this also because we portray the disabled differently than they portray themselves
There was not a point in the film that I found least convincing. The film was good and very informative. The knowledge received from the film in regards to disabilities was great.
A question that would most stick out for me is finding out how people in wheelchairs are adjusting in the first year. I would also study their progress a few years down the road to see how they are doing. I would study other races as well.
The film Murderball really tries to remove the stigma from individuals with impairments. Having a disability is seen as deviant in this society. In “You’re Not a Retard, You’re just Wise,” Steven Taylor says “A stigma is not merely a difference but a characteristic that deeply discredits a person’s moral character.” (Taylor, 2000). One other interesting point that the film focuses on is sexual intercourse and the ability to have sex. Another focus is about Mark Zupan and how he just wants to be treated equal despite that he is in a wheel chair. Society gest the notion that everybody who is disabled gets looked down on.
The thesis of this film relates to the course because we have been discussing deviant bodies and how society portrays them. A deviant body or anything outside the norms is considered deviant to society. You are treated and looked at differently by others.
One of the points I found most convincing was how the reality of not being able to walk was not being realized or coped with at first. The belief that one may walk again was still believed. But it took time to settle in with reality that walking will never happen again. Another point that is convincing about Murderball was the emotional affects that individuals had from being judged and dehumanized. The fact that not everyone in a wheelchair wants to walk was also a good point. The “Supercrip” blog relates to this also because we portray the disabled differently than they portray themselves
There was not a point in the film that I found least convincing. The film was good and very informative. The knowledge received from the film in regards to disabilities was great.
A question that would most stick out for me is finding out how people in wheelchairs are adjusting in the first year. I would also study their progress a few years down the road to see how they are doing. I would study other races as well.
The Power of Words
There are many ways that words can be used in our society. Words can be powerful. They can change lives and societies. But importantly, words can be used out of its original context in ways that can offend or hurt people. Words hold weight in ways that many people cannot imagine. In today’s society many people call each other names using words without knowing its true meaning and how a word evolved to its so called “new meaning”. The word I decided to focus on is used commonly in our society and is offensive to many: retard. The word ‘Retard’ is used to mean relatively slow in mental, emotional or physical development. This word appeared first in Middle English in 1400 (dictionary.com).
What is interesting about the use of the word retard or retarded is that it commonly used in society and has in some cases has sadly become a norm attached within many individuals speech. The frustration of having to take a test or gossiping about people usually has this word attached with it out of context, which is pointless and offensive. The fact that this is said regularly toward and amongst individuals brings my attention to Labeling Theory. According to Howard Becker he says “The deviant is one to whom that label is successfully been applied; deviant behavior is behavior that people so label”. If a person acts or says something in a certain way that is opposing to another person’s view, they can be labeled. A person who is most likely to use the phrase ‘retard’ or ‘retarded’ is someone who is ignorant and thoughtless to those who have mental and physical disabilities. The underling construction of the word retarded is that people are mentally slow and incapable of doing something that others are able to do. The word is in many ways compared to being called stupid because it also gives the label that one is incapable or lacks in something.
The community that is impacted by this “r word” is those who are "considered" mentally and physically challenged. Being called retarded is also similar to the phrase “That’s gay”. Another theory that comes to mind in relation to this issue is the Shaming Theory. A person can be perceived as deviant because of an act or behavior, which is tied into stigmatization. John Braithwaite mentions that shaming means all social processes of expressing disapproval that has the effect of provoking remorse in the individual being condemned by others who become aware of the shaming (34). Many people view this community as “retarded” and “stupid” automatically when that is not the case. In Steven Taylors "You're Not A Retard, You're Just Wise" he dicusses his study of the Dukes and how they have been labeled as disabled. But the Dukes do not attach the same meanings of disability labels found in society. In the clip below it shows how offensive words can be and how we need to be careful of the words we choose to use when speaking to or around other people. The members of the relevant community show that this word needs to stop being used.
I personally have grown to understand that being called retarded” or retard is not acceptable to this community, even though society may view them that way. I have a relative who is a part of this community. I can say he fits in just fine with society without a needing label. The norms that are socially constructed in this country have made individuals think ignorant, selfish and careless. That way of thinking does not make issues better. A message Wanda Sykes brings attention to in the clip below relates to this issue also, though it is another phrase commonly used. Not realizing what we say is insulting to others. Case and point, phrases like “That’s so retarded” or “What a retard” are phrases that hurt people’s feelings. We all need to watch are words.
Word Count: 618
Work Cited
-Becker, Howard S. Labeling Theory. Chapter 7. Readings in Deviant Behavior. Calhoun, Conyers and Thio. 2010. Pearson Education Inc. Boston, MA.
-Braithwaite, John. Shaming Theory. Chapter 6. Readings in Deviant Behavior. Calhoun, Conyers and Thio. 2010. Pearson Education Inc. Boston, MA.
-Taylor, Steven J. "You're Not A Retard, You're Just Wise". Chapter 26. Readings in Deviant Behavior. Calhoun, Conyers and Thio. 2010. Pearson Education Inc. Boston, MA.
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/retardation
What is interesting about the use of the word retard or retarded is that it commonly used in society and has in some cases has sadly become a norm attached within many individuals speech. The frustration of having to take a test or gossiping about people usually has this word attached with it out of context, which is pointless and offensive. The fact that this is said regularly toward and amongst individuals brings my attention to Labeling Theory. According to Howard Becker he says “The deviant is one to whom that label is successfully been applied; deviant behavior is behavior that people so label”. If a person acts or says something in a certain way that is opposing to another person’s view, they can be labeled. A person who is most likely to use the phrase ‘retard’ or ‘retarded’ is someone who is ignorant and thoughtless to those who have mental and physical disabilities. The underling construction of the word retarded is that people are mentally slow and incapable of doing something that others are able to do. The word is in many ways compared to being called stupid because it also gives the label that one is incapable or lacks in something.
The community that is impacted by this “r word” is those who are "considered" mentally and physically challenged. Being called retarded is also similar to the phrase “That’s gay”. Another theory that comes to mind in relation to this issue is the Shaming Theory. A person can be perceived as deviant because of an act or behavior, which is tied into stigmatization. John Braithwaite mentions that shaming means all social processes of expressing disapproval that has the effect of provoking remorse in the individual being condemned by others who become aware of the shaming (34). Many people view this community as “retarded” and “stupid” automatically when that is not the case. In Steven Taylors "You're Not A Retard, You're Just Wise" he dicusses his study of the Dukes and how they have been labeled as disabled. But the Dukes do not attach the same meanings of disability labels found in society. In the clip below it shows how offensive words can be and how we need to be careful of the words we choose to use when speaking to or around other people. The members of the relevant community show that this word needs to stop being used.
I personally have grown to understand that being called retarded” or retard is not acceptable to this community, even though society may view them that way. I have a relative who is a part of this community. I can say he fits in just fine with society without a needing label. The norms that are socially constructed in this country have made individuals think ignorant, selfish and careless. That way of thinking does not make issues better. A message Wanda Sykes brings attention to in the clip below relates to this issue also, though it is another phrase commonly used. Not realizing what we say is insulting to others. Case and point, phrases like “That’s so retarded” or “What a retard” are phrases that hurt people’s feelings. We all need to watch are words.
Word Count: 618
Work Cited
-Becker, Howard S. Labeling Theory. Chapter 7. Readings in Deviant Behavior. Calhoun, Conyers and Thio. 2010. Pearson Education Inc. Boston, MA.
-Braithwaite, John. Shaming Theory. Chapter 6. Readings in Deviant Behavior. Calhoun, Conyers and Thio. 2010. Pearson Education Inc. Boston, MA.
-Taylor, Steven J. "You're Not A Retard, You're Just Wise". Chapter 26. Readings in Deviant Behavior. Calhoun, Conyers and Thio. 2010. Pearson Education Inc. Boston, MA.
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/retardation
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Film Review 1: Middle Sexes
1. In the film “Middle Sexes: Redefining He and She,” it informs the audience of just that. The thesis of the film is about personal documentary and stories that involve sex, gender, transgender, and intersex people. In the film the audience is able to discover the challenges of transgender and intersex individuals and the steps it will take to have their male or female sex organs removed. What is also focused on is how society views this kind of transformation and behavior while having to deal with society.
2. Some of the main arguments in support of the thesis involve parents and couples who want to guard and protect their family from being harmed by society. Another issue focused on how society does not understand the trouble and hard ache that a person has to go through with living among others who do not accept this way of life.
3. The thesis of this film relates to the course because these people are prime examples of what is seen as deviant to society. One of the stories in this film focuses on 8 years Noah. Noah does different things that other boys his age are considered not to do for example; play with dolls and dress up like a girl. He is accepted and loved by his family but his parents fear the worst because of suicide or harm from other people. In the article by Anne Fausto called “The Five Sexes: Why Male and Female are Not Enough,” she explains that society will not always embrace intersexuality (Fausto Sterling 24). As Noah continues to act in his ways, society may not fully accept him as he gets older. But society today is turning more so to accepting homosexuality.
4. One of the points that stood out to me in the film was in Thailand. It was interesting to see that some of the performers were transsexual and transgender females. It was interesting to see how society accepted them there and that it was one of the country’s biggest tourist attractions. In our society this is considered deviant and viewed by many as a disorder of dysfunction.
5. One of the points I found that was least convincing was that this film was more about information and awareness on intersex and transgender individuals. If the film was more about ways on breaking the norms and barriers against transgender it would grasp more attention in society.
6. I think that Noah’s story stands out the most to me. Why was Noah acting the way he acted? As he gets older I would research his growth and progress. Will he change his ways and become different during puberty? Or will his parents get him on some kind of medications to get him to change? I would compare Noah’s situation to Labeling Theory by Howard Becker. He was picked on and called names by other boys and girls. If Noah is to continue his ways, he will be labeled by others and considered deviant by society. I would study Noah’s progress throughout his teenage years and see what changes, if any, have been made.
2. Some of the main arguments in support of the thesis involve parents and couples who want to guard and protect their family from being harmed by society. Another issue focused on how society does not understand the trouble and hard ache that a person has to go through with living among others who do not accept this way of life.
3. The thesis of this film relates to the course because these people are prime examples of what is seen as deviant to society. One of the stories in this film focuses on 8 years Noah. Noah does different things that other boys his age are considered not to do for example; play with dolls and dress up like a girl. He is accepted and loved by his family but his parents fear the worst because of suicide or harm from other people. In the article by Anne Fausto called “The Five Sexes: Why Male and Female are Not Enough,” she explains that society will not always embrace intersexuality (Fausto Sterling 24). As Noah continues to act in his ways, society may not fully accept him as he gets older. But society today is turning more so to accepting homosexuality.
4. One of the points that stood out to me in the film was in Thailand. It was interesting to see that some of the performers were transsexual and transgender females. It was interesting to see how society accepted them there and that it was one of the country’s biggest tourist attractions. In our society this is considered deviant and viewed by many as a disorder of dysfunction.
5. One of the points I found that was least convincing was that this film was more about information and awareness on intersex and transgender individuals. If the film was more about ways on breaking the norms and barriers against transgender it would grasp more attention in society.
6. I think that Noah’s story stands out the most to me. Why was Noah acting the way he acted? As he gets older I would research his growth and progress. Will he change his ways and become different during puberty? Or will his parents get him on some kind of medications to get him to change? I would compare Noah’s situation to Labeling Theory by Howard Becker. He was picked on and called names by other boys and girls. If Noah is to continue his ways, he will be labeled by others and considered deviant by society. I would study Noah’s progress throughout his teenage years and see what changes, if any, have been made.
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Rod, Deviant?
Rod was born in San Diego California but was raised in the Los Angeles for a majority of his life. Both of his parents were married. His father graduated from Oregon State University and his mother graduated from the University of Oregon. Rod’s upbringing as a child was different from other children. Rod and his older brother Calvin did not live with their parents in Portland, Oregon, but instead they both lived with their grandmother and grandfather in Los Angeles. Rod and Calvin did almost everything together growing up. Rod looked up to his older brother while Calvin consistently got into trouble. Consequently, Calvin would always get punished by his grandparents for disobedient and deviant ways.
One summer Rod and Calvin were outside playing baseball with some neighborhood friends as they did almost every day around noon. While playing, one of the kids hit the ball so hard it went over a neighbor’s fence. After the ball went over the fence the boys ended up with no ball to play with. They all gathered around to see who had an extra ball or who was able to get an extra ball. Unfortunately none of the kids were able. After a while of giving thoughts on where to get a ball, Calvin came up with an idea. He left and came back to the field 10 minutes later with a ball. None of the kids asked questions and they continued to play ball.
While continuing to play baseball the game once again came to a stop because a kid hit the ball into a large nearby pond. All the kids gathered back together to figure out where to get another ball. While gathering their thoughts Calvin made it a point to get that particular ball back. The kids asked why and Calvin explained it was a ball from his grandfather’s collection which was signed by Jose Conseco of the Oakland A’s. The kids were shocked and made it a mission to get the ball out from the large pond. Unfortunately there was no luck getting the ball back that afternoon. This situation is similar to the film The Sandlot. In the clip below it shows how a group of kids playing baseball lose a highly valued ball in a backyard. The kids do what they can to retrieve it.
Calvin made sure that Rod would not say anything to their grandfather. When they both got home their grandfather asked Calvin about the baseball and Calvin lied. Their grandfather called their parents in Portland and told them what Calvin did. Their grandfather was so mad he told Calvin he could no longer stay in his household. The next day Calvin was on a plane to Portland.
When Calvin moved, Rod was sad. He had nobody to look up to or play with anymore. He became frustrated that he had to be alone. Eventually Rod would end up stealing and lying like his older brother used to do. This got Rod into trouble. During school and while hanging out with friends Rod would teach others how act and commit the same bad behaviors.
When looking at Rods life, there are couple theories that may explain Rods deviant behavior. The first theory is Differential Association Theory by Edwin H. Sutherland, and Donald R. Cressey (1977). The theory says “When criminal behavior is learned, the learning includes (a) techniques of committing the crime, which are sometimes very complicated” (Cressey and Sutherland, 27). When Calvin moved his parents Rod started to act like Calvin. Before Calvin moved, Rod would not act in a deviant manner. Rods behavior was learned from his older brother and he did not want to quit his deviant behavior. According to Sutherland and Cressey they say “The principal part of the learning of criminal behavior occurs within intimate personal groups”. Calvin would lie and steal consistently and Rod would observe.
Another theory that relates to why Rod commits deviant acts is Control Theory by Travis Hirschi (1969). According to Hirschi he states “Control theories assume that the delinquent acts result when an individual’s bond is weak or broken”. When Calvin moved, Rods heart was broken and the delinquent acts started. Hirschi further explains that in order to avoid deviant acts you must have involvement in conventional activities. Rod and Calvin played baseball together and did other activities. Their parents and grandparents were not always around which gave both Rod and Calvin time and reason to commit deviant acts and behavior. There may be other explanations and theories that can relate to Rods life and deviant behavior, but Differential Association and Control Theory help explain why Rod engaged in the behaviors and acts he did.
Edwin H. Sutherland and Donald R. Cressey. (1977). Criminology. In Alex Thio, Thomas C. Calhoun, and Addrain Conyers (Eds.), Readings in Deviant Behavior (pp. 27-29). Boston, MA
Travis Hirschi. (1969). Causes of Delinquency. In Alex Thio, Thomas C. Calhoun, and Addrain Conyers (Eds.), Readings in Deviant Behavior (pp. 30-32). Boston, MA
Word Count 783
Part 2
In my experiment and experience on acting deviant for an hour, I noticed different reactions from random people and how they treated me. On February 3, 2012, I went to the Westfield shopping mall with a friend. I chose to experiment walking through the mall for an hour wearing my clothes on backwards. As I entered the mall I automatically received weird looks from people. The first floor of the mall is where I walked through first. I went inside a few stores and I could notice people giggling at me. When I walked inside the Old Navy store I overheard a young girl tell her mother “Mom, why does that dummy have his clothes on the wrong way?” When I went to the second floor I arrived at the food court. At that moment people were starring, pointing and laughing. Shortly after, I made my way through a few other stores and ended up at a jewelry store. While in the store I was given immediate attention by the jeweler as if I did not belong inside that store. My friend and I left the mall a while after.
My appearance was considered deviant by mainstream society because it went against the normality’s that society views as normal. The norms are that you are supposed to wear clotes the forward way. The potential harm for having this appearance is getting made fun of and called names by people around you and are considered an outcast. People’s reaction towards me was a times not pleasant, especially when I went into the jewelry store. I felt like I was automatically labeled deviant and an idiot to society. I relate my experience and experiment to Howard S. Becker’s Labeling Theory. According to Becker he explains that deviance is defined on an agreed upon rule, and if the rule is broken or not broken, society labels you deviant (39). In conducting my experiment at the mall, society viewed me as “breaking the rule” which labeled me as deviant. This also relates to Images of Deviance by Stephen Pfohl’s who says “Are there actions truly more harmful than the actions of people not labeled as deviants?” Pfohl says no (Pfohl,1994). Based on my experience on appearing deviant at the mall, my actions were not harmful but some in society may see it as harmful.
Howard S. Becker. (1963). Group from Outsiders: Studies in the Sociology of Deviance. In Alex Thio, Thomas C. Calhoun, and Addrain Conyers (Eds.), Readings in Deviant Behavior (pp. 39-41). Boston, MA
Stephen Pfohl. (1994). Images of Being Deviant: In Alex Thio, Thomas C. Calhoun, and Addrain Conyers (Eds.), Readings in Deviant Behavior (pp. 11-14). Boston, MA.
Word Count 389
One summer Rod and Calvin were outside playing baseball with some neighborhood friends as they did almost every day around noon. While playing, one of the kids hit the ball so hard it went over a neighbor’s fence. After the ball went over the fence the boys ended up with no ball to play with. They all gathered around to see who had an extra ball or who was able to get an extra ball. Unfortunately none of the kids were able. After a while of giving thoughts on where to get a ball, Calvin came up with an idea. He left and came back to the field 10 minutes later with a ball. None of the kids asked questions and they continued to play ball.
While continuing to play baseball the game once again came to a stop because a kid hit the ball into a large nearby pond. All the kids gathered back together to figure out where to get another ball. While gathering their thoughts Calvin made it a point to get that particular ball back. The kids asked why and Calvin explained it was a ball from his grandfather’s collection which was signed by Jose Conseco of the Oakland A’s. The kids were shocked and made it a mission to get the ball out from the large pond. Unfortunately there was no luck getting the ball back that afternoon. This situation is similar to the film The Sandlot. In the clip below it shows how a group of kids playing baseball lose a highly valued ball in a backyard. The kids do what they can to retrieve it.
Calvin made sure that Rod would not say anything to their grandfather. When they both got home their grandfather asked Calvin about the baseball and Calvin lied. Their grandfather called their parents in Portland and told them what Calvin did. Their grandfather was so mad he told Calvin he could no longer stay in his household. The next day Calvin was on a plane to Portland.
When Calvin moved, Rod was sad. He had nobody to look up to or play with anymore. He became frustrated that he had to be alone. Eventually Rod would end up stealing and lying like his older brother used to do. This got Rod into trouble. During school and while hanging out with friends Rod would teach others how act and commit the same bad behaviors.
When looking at Rods life, there are couple theories that may explain Rods deviant behavior. The first theory is Differential Association Theory by Edwin H. Sutherland, and Donald R. Cressey (1977). The theory says “When criminal behavior is learned, the learning includes (a) techniques of committing the crime, which are sometimes very complicated” (Cressey and Sutherland, 27). When Calvin moved his parents Rod started to act like Calvin. Before Calvin moved, Rod would not act in a deviant manner. Rods behavior was learned from his older brother and he did not want to quit his deviant behavior. According to Sutherland and Cressey they say “The principal part of the learning of criminal behavior occurs within intimate personal groups”. Calvin would lie and steal consistently and Rod would observe.
Another theory that relates to why Rod commits deviant acts is Control Theory by Travis Hirschi (1969). According to Hirschi he states “Control theories assume that the delinquent acts result when an individual’s bond is weak or broken”. When Calvin moved, Rods heart was broken and the delinquent acts started. Hirschi further explains that in order to avoid deviant acts you must have involvement in conventional activities. Rod and Calvin played baseball together and did other activities. Their parents and grandparents were not always around which gave both Rod and Calvin time and reason to commit deviant acts and behavior. There may be other explanations and theories that can relate to Rods life and deviant behavior, but Differential Association and Control Theory help explain why Rod engaged in the behaviors and acts he did.
Edwin H. Sutherland and Donald R. Cressey. (1977). Criminology. In Alex Thio, Thomas C. Calhoun, and Addrain Conyers (Eds.), Readings in Deviant Behavior (pp. 27-29). Boston, MA
Travis Hirschi. (1969). Causes of Delinquency. In Alex Thio, Thomas C. Calhoun, and Addrain Conyers (Eds.), Readings in Deviant Behavior (pp. 30-32). Boston, MA
Word Count 783
Part 2
In my experiment and experience on acting deviant for an hour, I noticed different reactions from random people and how they treated me. On February 3, 2012, I went to the Westfield shopping mall with a friend. I chose to experiment walking through the mall for an hour wearing my clothes on backwards. As I entered the mall I automatically received weird looks from people. The first floor of the mall is where I walked through first. I went inside a few stores and I could notice people giggling at me. When I walked inside the Old Navy store I overheard a young girl tell her mother “Mom, why does that dummy have his clothes on the wrong way?” When I went to the second floor I arrived at the food court. At that moment people were starring, pointing and laughing. Shortly after, I made my way through a few other stores and ended up at a jewelry store. While in the store I was given immediate attention by the jeweler as if I did not belong inside that store. My friend and I left the mall a while after.
My appearance was considered deviant by mainstream society because it went against the normality’s that society views as normal. The norms are that you are supposed to wear clotes the forward way. The potential harm for having this appearance is getting made fun of and called names by people around you and are considered an outcast. People’s reaction towards me was a times not pleasant, especially when I went into the jewelry store. I felt like I was automatically labeled deviant and an idiot to society. I relate my experience and experiment to Howard S. Becker’s Labeling Theory. According to Becker he explains that deviance is defined on an agreed upon rule, and if the rule is broken or not broken, society labels you deviant (39). In conducting my experiment at the mall, society viewed me as “breaking the rule” which labeled me as deviant. This also relates to Images of Deviance by Stephen Pfohl’s who says “Are there actions truly more harmful than the actions of people not labeled as deviants?” Pfohl says no (Pfohl,1994). Based on my experience on appearing deviant at the mall, my actions were not harmful but some in society may see it as harmful.
Howard S. Becker. (1963). Group from Outsiders: Studies in the Sociology of Deviance. In Alex Thio, Thomas C. Calhoun, and Addrain Conyers (Eds.), Readings in Deviant Behavior (pp. 39-41). Boston, MA
Stephen Pfohl. (1994). Images of Being Deviant: In Alex Thio, Thomas C. Calhoun, and Addrain Conyers (Eds.), Readings in Deviant Behavior (pp. 11-14). Boston, MA.
Word Count 389
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