Part 2

Structural strain theory

An individual's position in society determines whether she has the means to achieve her goals or must otherwise turn to deviance. Plagiarism: a student's attitude about plagiarizing depends on whether she has the means to write the paper.

conflict theory

Definitions and rules of deviance are applied unequally based on power Plagiarism: students with fewer resources are punished harshly and have fewer options afterward; students with more money or connections can either transfer to another school or rely on their parents to help.

Structural Functionalism

Deviance clarifies moral boundaries and promotes social cohesion Plagiarism: punishing those who plagiarize separates those who should be in college from those who aren't responsible enough.

Labeling theory

Deviance is determined by the reactions of others; applying deviant labels to an individual may lead her to further deviance. Plagiarism: a student who is caught plagiarizing may come to believe she is unable to write without cheating.

Differential association theory

Deviance is learned through interactions with others who break the rules Plagiarism: students learn to cheat because they hang out with other students who plagiarize.

symbolic interaction

The definition of deviance is relative and depends on the culture, time period, and situation plagiarism: plagiarism may be labeled deviant in the United States but not in Russia or India.