What term is often used interchangeably with "deviance" in the context of criminal law?

In the context of criminal law, "deviance" often refers to behavior that violates societal norms, including laws. The term "crime" is a specific type of deviance that is defined by legal statutes as conduct that is punishable by the state. When an act is labeled as a crime, it signifies that it goes against the established legal norms and carries consequences such as penalties or incarceration.

The close relationship between deviance and crime arises because all crimes are considered deviant from the perspective of societal norms. However, not all deviant behaviors are classified as crimes; some may simply be unconventional or stigmatized actions that do not have legal repercussions. Understanding this relationship helps clarify the distinction between broader social norms and the specific legal definitions that govern behavior within a society.