Non conformity to social norms is called as?

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2018

Explanation

Deviance is the sociological term for any behavior that is a recognized violation of cultural or social norms.
This concept is broad and includes actions that are not necessarily illegal but go against shared social expectations.
The key aspect of deviance is the social reaction to the behavior, which can range from disapproval to formal punishment.

Option A: Crime is a specific type of deviance that involves the violation of formally enacted laws. Not all deviant acts are crimes.
Option B: A habit is a repetitive, often unconscious, behavior of an individual. It is not defined by its conformity or non-conformity to social norms.
Option D: A value is a belief or a cultural standard about what is good, right, and desirable. It is a principle that underlies norms, not the act of violating them.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Sociological Concepts: Deviance and Social Norms as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding deviance helps nurses provide non-judgmental care to patients whose lifestyles or beliefs (e.g., substance use, alternative health practices, different family structures) may differ from the mainstream.
This concept encourages nurses to reflect on their own biases, ensuring patient care is respectful, culturally competent, and effective.
What if? A patient refuses a medically necessary blood transfusion due to religious beliefs. This act is 'deviant' from a standard medical norm but is a protected right, not a crime. A nurse who understands this distinction can better navigate the situation with empathy and respect for patient autonomy, rather than with judgment.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify that this is a definition-based recall question from sociology.
Carefully analyze the key phrase in the question: 'Non-conformity to social norms'.
Evaluate each option based on its precise sociological definition.
Eliminate 'Crime' as it is too specific (violation of law, not just norms).
Eliminate 'Habit' as it refers to an individual's routine, not a social violation.
Eliminate 'Value' as it is a belief or standard, not the act of non-conformity itself.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Qb0clge--0An_WSwA0oEMf

E6 Applied Sociology for Nurses TK Indrani pp. 218-220, 219-221, 284-286

Practise the full RUHS, Jaipur, PB B.Sc Nursing Entrance-2018

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.