From “Deviant” to Normal
The LGBTQ+ community is a social group that was once considered “deviant” but is now considered more accepted in society. This transition from deviance to normality was made possible through a collective effort from members of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies to work together and create a movement of acceptance and visibility. By raising awareness and creating a sense of understanding, the LGBTQ+ community was able to become a more normalized and accepted part of society (Todd, 2020). Additionally, the role of the media in highlighting and accepting the LGBTQ+ community further propelled this change.
Theories of culture, meaning, and deviance have played a crucial role in the migration of the LGBTQ+ community from deviance to normality. By recognizing and respecting the diversity of beliefs and lifestyles, individuals have been able to challenge and break down traditional social norms (Todd, 2020). This has allowed people to be more open-minded and accepting of the LGBTQ+ community, which has made it easier for them to be accepted as part of society.
Contemporary Deviant Label
Immigrants are a social group that is currently struggling against a deviant label. Actions taken by immigrants that society tends to consider deviant include crossing borders without authorization, settling in a new country without permission, and working without a valid visa (Sissoko et al., 2021). Society has an interest in sanctioning these actions due to the perceived risk of immigrants taking jobs away from citizens and overburdening the welfare system. Furthermore, the presence of immigrants can be seen as a challenge to traditional national values.
Social factors that have pressured immigrants to engage in such actions include poverty, a lack of economic opportunity, and political instability in their home countries. In order to support themselves and their families, many immigrants have no choice but to seek opportunities abroad (Sissoko et al., 2021). Additionally, economic and political conditions in their home countries may make it difficult or even impossible for them to remain. Moreover, it is important to acknowledge that many immigrants take on dangerous and physically demanding jobs, often for minimal wages, that citizens are unwilling to do (Sissoko et al., 2021). Furthermore, immigrants often make valuable contributions to their host societies through their hard work and dedication, which has been largely overlooked by society.
References
Sissoko, D. R. G., & Nadal, K. L. (2021). Microaggressions toward racial minority immigrants in the United States. In P. Tummala-Narra (Ed.), Trauma and racial minority immigrants: Turmoil, uncertainty, and resistance (pp. 85–102). American Psychological Association. Web.
Todd, M. (2020). Pride: The story of the LGBTQ equality movement. Weldon Owen.