Criminal behavior and deviance are key concepts in criminology....
Criminology1,797 views·Updated 3 Sept 2026·1 pageCompare Criminal Behavior and Deviance: Easy PDF for Kids
1
of 1
Defining Deviance and Criminal Behavior
This page explores the definitions of deviance and criminal behavior, highlighting the key differences between these two concepts in criminology.
Deviance is categorized into three types:
- Unusual and good behavior (e.g., heroic acts)
- Unusual and eccentric behavior (e.g., talking to trees)
- Unusual and disapproved behavior (e.g., unprovoked physical attacks)
Criminal behavior is defined in two ways:
- Legal Definition: Actions forbidden by criminal law, typically involving actus reus and mens rea
- Social Definition: Considers varying views on what constitutes criminal behavior, law enforcement, and public opinion on criminalization
Definition: Crime and deviance criminology studies the relationship between criminal acts and behaviors that violate social norms.
The page also introduces formal sanctions against criminals, including custodial sentences, community sentences, and police sanctions. It explains the difference between crime and deviance with examples, such as summary offenses and indictable offenses.
Example: Speeding is a criminal act, while queue jumping is considered deviant but not criminal.
Vocabulary: Actus reus refers to the "guilty act," while mens rea means "guilty mind" in Latin, both essential components in defining criminal behavior.
The document further elaborates on norms, values, and moral codes, providing examples for each:
- Norm: Queuing in an orderly fashion in the UK
- Value: Respect for human life
- Moral code: Police code of ethics
Highlight: Understanding the distinctions between norms, values, and moral codes is crucial for comprehending social control mechanisms in criminology.
The page concludes with a comprehensive list of key vocabulary terms essential for studying crime and deviance sociology, including formal sanctions, social control, and various types of criminal offenses.
Quote: "Formal sanction - Punishments for breaking formal written rules or laws. Imposed by official bodies e.g., courts, schools etc."
This detailed overview provides a solid foundation for understanding the complex relationship between criminal behavior and deviance in society, essential for students of criminology and sociology.
We thought you’d never ask...
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Similar content
LawMost popular content: Deviance and Social Control
9SociologyComprehensive Crime & Deviance Overview
Explore an extensive revision of crime and deviance topics, including theories, types of crime, and the impact of media. This resource covers key concepts such as Marxism, functionalism, gender and crime, and the influence of globalization on criminal behavior. Ideal for students seeking a thorough understanding of criminology and its various theories. Type: Full Topic Revision.
1251,8331,407
CriminologyUnderstanding Crime Types
Explore the various types of crime including honour crimes, state crimes, technological crimes, hate crimes, white-collar crimes, domestic abuse, and moral crimes. This summary highlights key concepts, victim profiles, offender characteristics, and public awareness levels, providing a comprehensive overview for criminology students. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding the complexities of criminal behavior.
121,19116
SociologySociology of Crime
Comprehensive AQA A-Level sociology revision notes on crime and deviance. Explore key theories including Marxism, Right Realism, and Labelling Theory, alongside discussions on gender, ethnicity, and the impact of globalization on crime. Ideal for students preparing for exams, this resource covers crime prevention strategies, types of crime, and the role of media in shaping perceptions of criminality.
124,05277
SociologyUnderstanding Crime and Deviance
Explore the sociological perspectives on crime and deviance, focusing on Functionalist theories by Durkheim, Merton, and Cohen. This summary covers key concepts such as status frustration, social bonds, and the social construction of deviance. Ideal for students studying sociology and criminology, this resource provides insights into the causes and consequences of criminal behavior and the role of subcultures in society.
1355111
SociologyAQA Crime & Deviance Overview
Explore key concepts in AQA Crime and Deviance, including labelling theory, gender and crime, media influences, and sociological perspectives. This comprehensive summary covers essential theories such as Marxism, Functionalism, and Subcultural Theory, along with the role of social control agencies and the types of crime. Ideal for students preparing for exams or seeking a deeper understanding of criminology.
1193727
SociologySociology: crime and deviance
AQA sociology paper 1 crime and deviance. social order, formal social control, informal social control
111605
CriminologyCriminology Unit 4 Revision Cards
These were the revision cards I used for my Criminology Unit 4 exam. Feel free to print these out and use them as an exam resource, they have been colour coded for each AC. Good luck!
125,55590
SociologyCrime and deviance basics
Basics
132664
CriminologyUnit 1 Criminology 1.1
Unit 1.1 notes for the Criminology controlled assessment
135255
Most popular content in Criminology
9CriminologyCriminal Justice Overview
Explore key concepts in criminal justice, including the trial process, roles of court personnel, types of offenses, and evidence handling. This comprehensive summary covers essential topics such as jury strengths and weaknesses, the role of the CPS, and the impact of media on trials. Ideal for students preparing for assessments in criminology. Achieved a B grade.
133,36569
CriminologyEvaluating Criminal Investigation Roles
This study note evaluates the effectiveness of various personnel involved in criminal investigations, including the National Crime Agency, HM Revenue and Customs, Crime Scene Investigators, and the Crown Prosecution Service. It discusses their strengths, weaknesses, and real-world case studies, providing insights into their impact on the criminal justice system. Ideal for criminology students and those studying law enforcement roles.
131,92139
CriminologyCriminal Justice Evidence Rules
Explore the essential rules governing the use of evidence in criminal cases, including reliability, admissibility, and relevance. This summary covers key concepts such as the roles of personnel in investigations, the impact of witness testimonies, and the implications of plea bargaining. Ideal for Year 13 criminology students preparing for assessments.
1210,978175
CriminologyRoles in Criminal Investigations
Explore the critical roles of personnel in criminal investigations, including SOCOs, police officers, forensic scientists, CPS, pathologists, and the NCA. This summary highlights their responsibilities, strengths, and limitations, providing insights into the effectiveness of each role in the justice system. Ideal for students studying law enforcement and forensic science.
133,96577
CriminologyEvaluating Criminal Investigation Roles
This study note provides a comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness of various personnel involved in criminal investigations, including Crime Scene Investigators, Forensic Scientists, Pathologists, and the Crown Prosecution Service. It covers their roles, strengths, limitations, and the impact of their work on the criminal justice system. Ideal for criminology students and those studying law enforcement principles.
139,304205
CriminologyAC1.1 model answer - criminology unit 3
Unit 3 wjec write up
133354
CriminologyCriminology Unit 3 - AC:1.1 Example
These are my Criminology Unit 3 1.1 notes, please utilise these as a guidance for your exam. Ensure you do not use this as your own work as you will be disqualified for plagiarism. Good luck studying! .
132,07038
CriminologyForensic Evidence Collection
Explore the comprehensive processes of collecting, transferring, storing, and analyzing various types of forensic evidence, including hair, fingerprints, blood, and bite marks. This summary covers key techniques, personnel involved, and notable case studies, providing essential insights for criminology students. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding forensic methodologies.
133,57043
CriminologyCriminology Unit 3 - AC:1.2 Example
These are my Criminology Unit 3 - 1.2 notes, please utilise these as a guidance for your exam. Ensure you do not use this as your own work as you will be disqualified for plagiarism. Good luck studying! .
131,55118
Most popular content
9SociologySociology of Families: Comprehensive Revision
Dive into an extensive overview of family dynamics, perspectives, and patterns in sociology. This resource covers key concepts such as family diversity, gender roles, marriage, and the impact of social policies on family structures. Perfect for A-Level Sociology students preparing for Paper 2.
1274,0622,307
SociologySociology of Education Overview
Explore comprehensive A-Level Sociology notes on the education system, covering key theories, policies, and sociological perspectives. This resource includes insights on marketisation, gender roles, cultural deprivation, and educational inequalities, providing a thorough understanding of how education shapes social stratification and individual achievement. Ideal for exam preparation and in-depth study.
12103,2203,044
BiologyA-Level Biology Year 1 Overview
Comprehensive summary of AQA A-Level Biology Year 1, covering key topics such as cellular structure, protein synthesis, immune response, gas exchange, and more. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding biological concepts. Includes detailed insights into cellular processes, biological classification, and the circulatory system.
1215,192704
BiologyAQA Biology: Key Concepts
Explore essential AQA Biology topics including Photosynthesis, Respiration, Homeostasis, Genetics, and Ecology. This comprehensive knowledge organizer covers key concepts such as energy transfer, hormonal control, and genetic variation, providing a solid foundation for your studies. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding biological processes.
109,192314
MathsComprehensive Maths Concepts
Explore essential mathematical concepts including powers, geometry, statistics, and probability. This resource features 65 pages of detailed explanations, diagrams, and examples to enhance your understanding of topics such as right triangles, volume calculations, and data representation. Ideal for students seeking to strengthen their numeracy skills and grasp complex mathematical principles.
1180,3496,327
PhysicsPhysics paper 2 notes
physics aqa gcse paper 2 combined higher notes
111,26910
Biologybiology paper 1
all notes
112,61438
English LanguageLanguage Paper 1 Strategies
Master the AQA English Language Paper 1 with this comprehensive guide. Explore key strategies for language and structural analysis, critical evaluation, and creative writing. Learn how to effectively analyze texts, utilize literary techniques, and enhance your writing skills to excel in your exams.
1128,760902
Chemistrychem paper 1
higher
112,27446
Students love us, and so will you.
4.6/5App Store
4.7/5Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan SiOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha KlichAndroid user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
AnnaiOS user
Criminology1,797 views·Updated 3 Sept 2026·1 pageCompare Criminal Behavior and Deviance: Easy PDF for Kids
Criminal behavior and deviance are key concepts in criminology. This summary explores their definitions, types, and implications, highlighting the differences between criminal acts and deviant behavior. It also covers formal sanctions, social norms, and various examples to illustrate these...
1
of 1
Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
- Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Defining Deviance and Criminal Behavior
This page explores the definitions of deviance and criminal behavior, highlighting the key differences between these two concepts in criminology.
Deviance is categorized into three types:
- Unusual and good behavior (e.g., heroic acts)
- Unusual and eccentric behavior (e.g., talking to trees)
- Unusual and disapproved behavior (e.g., unprovoked physical attacks)
Criminal behavior is defined in two ways:
- Legal Definition: Actions forbidden by criminal law, typically involving actus reus and mens rea
- Social Definition: Considers varying views on what constitutes criminal behavior, law enforcement, and public opinion on criminalization
Definition: Crime and deviance criminology studies the relationship between criminal acts and behaviors that violate social norms.
The page also introduces formal sanctions against criminals, including custodial sentences, community sentences, and police sanctions. It explains the difference between crime and deviance with examples, such as summary offenses and indictable offenses.
Example: Speeding is a criminal act, while queue jumping is considered deviant but not criminal.
Vocabulary: Actus reus refers to the "guilty act," while mens rea means "guilty mind" in Latin, both essential components in defining criminal behavior.
The document further elaborates on norms, values, and moral codes, providing examples for each:
- Norm: Queuing in an orderly fashion in the UK
- Value: Respect for human life
- Moral code: Police code of ethics
Highlight: Understanding the distinctions between norms, values, and moral codes is crucial for comprehending social control mechanisms in criminology.
The page concludes with a comprehensive list of key vocabulary terms essential for studying crime and deviance sociology, including formal sanctions, social control, and various types of criminal offenses.
Quote: "Formal sanction - Punishments for breaking formal written rules or laws. Imposed by official bodies e.g., courts, schools etc."
This detailed overview provides a solid foundation for understanding the complex relationship between criminal behavior and deviance in society, essential for students of criminology and sociology.
We thought you’d never ask...
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Similar content
Most popular content: Deviance and Social Control
9SociologyComprehensive Crime & Deviance Overview
Explore an extensive revision of crime and deviance topics, including theories, types of crime, and the impact of media. This resource covers key concepts such as Marxism, functionalism, gender and crime, and the influence of globalization on criminal behavior. Ideal for students seeking a thorough understanding of criminology and its various theories. Type: Full Topic Revision.
1251,8331,407
CriminologyUnderstanding Crime Types
Explore the various types of crime including honour crimes, state crimes, technological crimes, hate crimes, white-collar crimes, domestic abuse, and moral crimes. This summary highlights key concepts, victim profiles, offender characteristics, and public awareness levels, providing a comprehensive overview for criminology students. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding the complexities of criminal behavior.
121,19116
SociologySociology of Crime
Comprehensive AQA A-Level sociology revision notes on crime and deviance. Explore key theories including Marxism, Right Realism, and Labelling Theory, alongside discussions on gender, ethnicity, and the impact of globalization on crime. Ideal for students preparing for exams, this resource covers crime prevention strategies, types of crime, and the role of media in shaping perceptions of criminality.
124,05277
SociologyUnderstanding Crime and Deviance
Explore the sociological perspectives on crime and deviance, focusing on Functionalist theories by Durkheim, Merton, and Cohen. This summary covers key concepts such as status frustration, social bonds, and the social construction of deviance. Ideal for students studying sociology and criminology, this resource provides insights into the causes and consequences of criminal behavior and the role of subcultures in society.
1355111
SociologyAQA Crime & Deviance Overview
Explore key concepts in AQA Crime and Deviance, including labelling theory, gender and crime, media influences, and sociological perspectives. This comprehensive summary covers essential theories such as Marxism, Functionalism, and Subcultural Theory, along with the role of social control agencies and the types of crime. Ideal for students preparing for exams or seeking a deeper understanding of criminology.
1193727
SociologySociology: crime and deviance
AQA sociology paper 1 crime and deviance. social order, formal social control, informal social control
111605
CriminologyCriminology Unit 4 Revision Cards
These were the revision cards I used for my Criminology Unit 4 exam. Feel free to print these out and use them as an exam resource, they have been colour coded for each AC. Good luck!
125,55590
SociologyCrime and deviance basics
Basics
132664
CriminologyUnit 1 Criminology 1.1
Unit 1.1 notes for the Criminology controlled assessment
135255
Most popular content in Criminology
9CriminologyCriminal Justice Overview
Explore key concepts in criminal justice, including the trial process, roles of court personnel, types of offenses, and evidence handling. This comprehensive summary covers essential topics such as jury strengths and weaknesses, the role of the CPS, and the impact of media on trials. Ideal for students preparing for assessments in criminology. Achieved a B grade.
133,36569
CriminologyEvaluating Criminal Investigation Roles
This study note evaluates the effectiveness of various personnel involved in criminal investigations, including the National Crime Agency, HM Revenue and Customs, Crime Scene Investigators, and the Crown Prosecution Service. It discusses their strengths, weaknesses, and real-world case studies, providing insights into their impact on the criminal justice system. Ideal for criminology students and those studying law enforcement roles.
131,92139
CriminologyCriminal Justice Evidence Rules
Explore the essential rules governing the use of evidence in criminal cases, including reliability, admissibility, and relevance. This summary covers key concepts such as the roles of personnel in investigations, the impact of witness testimonies, and the implications of plea bargaining. Ideal for Year 13 criminology students preparing for assessments.
1210,978175
CriminologyRoles in Criminal Investigations
Explore the critical roles of personnel in criminal investigations, including SOCOs, police officers, forensic scientists, CPS, pathologists, and the NCA. This summary highlights their responsibilities, strengths, and limitations, providing insights into the effectiveness of each role in the justice system. Ideal for students studying law enforcement and forensic science.
133,96577
CriminologyEvaluating Criminal Investigation Roles
This study note provides a comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness of various personnel involved in criminal investigations, including Crime Scene Investigators, Forensic Scientists, Pathologists, and the Crown Prosecution Service. It covers their roles, strengths, limitations, and the impact of their work on the criminal justice system. Ideal for criminology students and those studying law enforcement principles.
139,304205
CriminologyAC1.1 model answer - criminology unit 3
Unit 3 wjec write up
133354
CriminologyCriminology Unit 3 - AC:1.1 Example
These are my Criminology Unit 3 1.1 notes, please utilise these as a guidance for your exam. Ensure you do not use this as your own work as you will be disqualified for plagiarism. Good luck studying! .
132,07038
CriminologyForensic Evidence Collection
Explore the comprehensive processes of collecting, transferring, storing, and analyzing various types of forensic evidence, including hair, fingerprints, blood, and bite marks. This summary covers key techniques, personnel involved, and notable case studies, providing essential insights for criminology students. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding forensic methodologies.
133,57043
CriminologyCriminology Unit 3 - AC:1.2 Example
These are my Criminology Unit 3 - 1.2 notes, please utilise these as a guidance for your exam. Ensure you do not use this as your own work as you will be disqualified for plagiarism. Good luck studying! .
131,55118
Most popular content
9SociologySociology of Families: Comprehensive Revision
Dive into an extensive overview of family dynamics, perspectives, and patterns in sociology. This resource covers key concepts such as family diversity, gender roles, marriage, and the impact of social policies on family structures. Perfect for A-Level Sociology students preparing for Paper 2.
1274,0622,307
SociologySociology of Education Overview
Explore comprehensive A-Level Sociology notes on the education system, covering key theories, policies, and sociological perspectives. This resource includes insights on marketisation, gender roles, cultural deprivation, and educational inequalities, providing a thorough understanding of how education shapes social stratification and individual achievement. Ideal for exam preparation and in-depth study.
12103,2203,044
BiologyA-Level Biology Year 1 Overview
Comprehensive summary of AQA A-Level Biology Year 1, covering key topics such as cellular structure, protein synthesis, immune response, gas exchange, and more. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding biological concepts. Includes detailed insights into cellular processes, biological classification, and the circulatory system.
1215,192704
BiologyAQA Biology: Key Concepts
Explore essential AQA Biology topics including Photosynthesis, Respiration, Homeostasis, Genetics, and Ecology. This comprehensive knowledge organizer covers key concepts such as energy transfer, hormonal control, and genetic variation, providing a solid foundation for your studies. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding biological processes.
109,192314
MathsComprehensive Maths Concepts
Explore essential mathematical concepts including powers, geometry, statistics, and probability. This resource features 65 pages of detailed explanations, diagrams, and examples to enhance your understanding of topics such as right triangles, volume calculations, and data representation. Ideal for students seeking to strengthen their numeracy skills and grasp complex mathematical principles.
1180,3496,327
PhysicsPhysics paper 2 notes
physics aqa gcse paper 2 combined higher notes
111,26910
Biologybiology paper 1
all notes
112,61438
English LanguageLanguage Paper 1 Strategies
Master the AQA English Language Paper 1 with this comprehensive guide. Explore key strategies for language and structural analysis, critical evaluation, and creative writing. Learn how to effectively analyze texts, utilize literary techniques, and enhance your writing skills to excel in your exams.
1128,760902
Chemistrychem paper 1
higher
112,27446
Students love us, and so will you.
4.6/5App Store
4.7/5Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan SiOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha KlichAndroid user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
AnnaiOS user