A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

In the context of deviance, what did Alexander suggest about the perception of "the unknown group"?

1. They were seen as more socially acceptable

2. They had a negative reputation in the community

3. They were ignored by society

4. They were fully accepted by older generations

The correct answer is: They had a negative reputation in the community

The notion that "the unknown group" held a negative reputation in the community aligns with the sociological understanding of deviance, particularly in how society views groups that are perceived as different or outside societal norms. Alexander's work highlights the stigmatization of these groups, which often leads to the formation of negative stereotypes and prejudices against them. This stigma serves to reinforce social boundaries and can result in increased social exclusion or discrimination. In contrast, options that propose that such groups were socially acceptable, were completely accepted by older generations, or ignored by society do not capture the realities of social dynamics surrounding deviance. Groups considered "unknown" often elicit fear or misunderstanding from established societal norms, leading to a negative reputation rather than acceptance or indifference.