Part 1: Classification as Deviant
Identify an act that is currently deviant and explain how or why it is deviant. This can be a criminal act such as illicit drug use or a noncriminal act such as extreme body modification. Describe the history of the behavior and the historical reactions to this act. What are the reactions or sanctions to this act that currently exist? What are the arguments in favor of the behavior remaining deviant?
Part 2: Reclassification as Non-Deviant
Provide arguments for why the deviant behavior should be reclassified as non-deviant. What are the arguments in favor of the behavior no longer being considered deviant? What are the manifest and latent functions (anticipated and unanticipated outcomes) that may occur socially or culturally?
For this project, students are required to use the course text, as well as at least five outside sources such as books, journals, newspapers, magazines, official websites, and documentaries from reliable sources. Provide statistics and specific examples to support statements.
Citations: When using a resource, be sure to cite using APA format. The following website provides a formatting and style guide that you may find helpful: http://owl.english.purdue.edu/. Even if you paraphrase, credit needs to be given to the author or the work. It is important to distinguish for the reader those
words and ideas that are original and those that belong to another source. Failure to cite and duplication (the submission of the same or similar paper in more than one course) may result in a failing grade.
