Social Deviance (SOC*2070)

Code and section: SOC*2070*01

Term: Fall 2025

Instructor: Patrick Parnaby

Details

University of Guelph
Department of Sociology and Anthropology
Sociology 2070 – Social Deviance
Fall 2025

*The following information is subject to change*

DETAILS
Time & Location: In-person only. Tuesdays and Thursdays 11:30 AM – 12:50 PM (ALEX 200)
Instructor: Dr. Patrick Parnaby
Email: pparnaby@uoguelph.ca
Office: Mackinnon 638
Office Hours: TBA
TAs: TBA

REQUIRED MATERIALS
1. Bereska, Tami. (2022) Deviance, Conformity, and Social Control in Canada. Toronto: Pearson 6th Edition (E-text).
(180 day subscription $68. Perpetual e-book $98)
2. Various readings on electronic course reserve (ARES) via the library (no charge).

ASSESSMENT
1. In-person test – October 21st, 2025 (25%)
2. Written assignment (1000 words) – Evaluating the Subjectivist/Objectivist Continuum – Due October 3rd (20%)
3. Written assignment (2000 words) – Theorizing Ruby Franke – Due November 21st, 2025 (25%)
4. In-person final exam – Dec 2025 (30%)

COURSE OVERVIEW
Welcome to Social Deviance. This course has been designed to give you an introduction to the sociology of “deviance”.
The course begins by theorizing deviance in a variety of different ways before going on to critically examine deviance in
myriad forms and contexts (e.g., crime and delinquency, online subcultures, body modification, mental illness, deviance in
the academy etc.). There will be several recurring themes, including (but not limited to) the relationship between deviance
and identity, the connection between deviance and stigma, and the significance of social control. Small group discussions
are not possible given the size of the class, but students are nevertheless encouraged to openly share their thoughts and
ideas in class whenever possible. Please help nurture and maintain viewpoint diversity. So, grab ourself a chocolatemocha-
double-pump-espresso beverage, buckle up, and settle in.

Learning Outcomes
(1) Analyze, evaluate, and apply specific theoretical frameworks.
(2) Write clearly, professionally, and with precision while addressing complex and/or sensitive issues.
(3) Critically reflect on culture, social relations and social structures to develop a broader and deeper
understanding of social deviance.
These learning outcomes map directly onto the outcomes established by the Department of Sociology and
Anthropology.