Primary deviance

Definition

Primary deviance is the initial act of rule-breaking or non-normative behavior that may be labeled as deviant but does not yet affect an individual's self-concept or social identity. It represents a departure from social norms without leading to an individual being defined by this deviation.

Related terms

Social Control: The methods and strategies society uses to maintain norms and order, often guiding individuals away from deviant acts.

Stigma: A powerful negative label that greatly changes a person's self-concept and social identity, often resulting from prolonged deviant behavior.

Secondary Deviance: When an individual continues to violate norms and this behavior leads to them being labeled as deviant, affecting their self-concept and how they are perceived by society