Specific Instructions: (please read through carefully)
The primary task of this paper is to apply two (or more) theoretical perspectives on deviance to one category of deviance listed here.
• Child molestation
Your paper must cover each of the following seven items thoroughly; omitting questions will result in points deducted from the overall grade:
1. Provide an analysis of the deviant behavior from the perspective of TWO or more of the sociological theories on deviance set out in the text and discussed in lectures. Analyze how the theoretical approaches that you have chosen apply to the topic of your interest. (This should be one page, minimum, and is the most crucial part of your essay).
2. Describe why the behavior being considered deviant conforms or fails to conform to societal norms. Be specific.
3. What is the societal norm or legitimate authority for regarding this person or group and their behavior as deviant?
4. Why do these people or groups engage in deviant behavior? Be sure to provide a detailed analysis. If possible, provide alternate perspectives.
5. How do these deviants view their behavior? For example, do they regard their deviance as a one-time aberration or see it as a deviant career? Justify your answer.
6. What impacts (both positive and negative) does the deviant behavior have on society?
7. In what ways has society responded or reacted to the deviance? Sociology of Deviance – Writing Assignment Instructions (Madsen)
Instructions:
Your paper should be a thoughtful, theoretical, reflective, and well-organized paper that applies sociological concepts to your subject.
Your paper must:
• be typed (12 point font),
• double-spaced,
• 1 inch margins on all sides,
• With the body/text three-four pages long. Papers less than three pages are unacceptable, and papers which exceed four pages will not be accepted.
• If you decide to use outside sources – incorporate quotations, facts that are not common knowledge, and/or ideas which are not your own – cite accordingly (including page numbers). You may use ASA or MLA citation formats.
• Papers which do not include all of the above will automatically be downgraded by five points. Please edit your work carefully.
Grading Criteria:
There are many elements that contribute to a paper earning a great score; an exceptional paper must include the following:
• A well-supported central thesis
• Interesting and relevant details, words and phrases – provide specific examples and verbatim quotes where applicable!
• Objectivity – the ability to critically and impartially assess your experiences
• Logical thinking and arguments
• Original thought
• answer all questions posed in the assignment
• No grammar or spelling errors and last, but certainly not least, it *must* contain sociological content.
