Sociology: Deviance & Social Control

Analysis of the causes and consequences of social behavior that violates norms. Examines patterns of deviant socialization and social organization and forms of deviance control.

Open to Degree and PACE students

This course offers students an introduction to the field of deviance and social control broadly defined. The course will review a) foundational texts on sociological approaches to deviance and social control; b) critical approaches to understanding deviance and social control in relationship to power and stratification; and c) select contemporary topics in the field. Throughout the semester, the course will draw on key concepts in the field drawing on examples and case studies from the US and worldwide.

Learning Objectives for this course include: - Think sociologically about deviance and social control that critically challenge common sense and politicized notions of these topics - Reflect on main concepts and contemporary debates for further studies in the field - Develop critical analytical skills through class readings, discussions, and assignments Interactive lecture focused on student engagement. Course expectations include course readings, class exercises, exams, short writing assignments. There is one required coursebook: Henry, S. & Howard, L.M. (2019). Social Deviance: Short Introductions. 2nd Edition, Cambridge, UK: Polity. Available at the UVM Bookstore or online (print version recommended).

Class exercises, exams, short writing assignments.