This course introduces the sociology of deviance as an area of study. When we think of “deviance,” we often consider it to be a quality of distinct groups of Others who cause problems for society. However, we must ask ourselves who it is that causes such problems, and indeed, why their actions are considered problematic in the first place. Even if we focus attention on a single culture at a specific time in history, there will be varied points of view as to whether a certain behaviour is deviant or not. Therefore, it may be more accurate to think of deviance as a process rather than a quality—a process in which each of us is a participant.