Factors That Affect the Development of "Deviant" Individuals

The term deviance is defined as any behavior that violates social norms. This behavior is usually disapproved of by a majority of society and can be criminal or non-criminal. The current research examined several factors, such as childhood sexual and physical abuse, that could result in deviant behaviors throughout adulthood, beginning as early as puberty. As well, three different delinquency theories, that could explain the progression of delinquent behavior from childhood through to adulthood, were examined. In addition, the background of several prolific crime bosses, serial killers, and school shooters was examined to see if they had ever experienced any factors that were found to contribute to deviant behavior.