 Dear students, in this module, we are going to discuss the functions of deviance. That whether deviance can be considered functional in nature, you will be surprised to see this or you will be surprised to hear this question that how is it possible that antisocial behavior can also be considered functional in nature. So deviance can serve several functions in society, including reinforcing the social norms and values. We often see that the antisocial behavior, the deviant behavior, is always negatively perceived. Whereas if we look at it from a sociological point of view, we will feel that the deviant behavior is also very positive functions. For example, it helps to clarify right and wrong rather good and bad for you. If deviant behavior is not there, if no crime commit, then normality cannot be defined. That is, the concepts that are present in our mind come under binary opposition. When an antonym of a concept is present, then we understand that concept. So deviance is also important and it can also bring attention to different social issues and it can promote the change. In some cases, deviancy is negatively perceived in a context, but later on its consequences are positive. For example, the social movements, the agitation movements, the needy movements, in that context feel that its consequences are negative and the possibilities of violence are increasing. But later on, when those social movements become successful, then we can see its positive consequences as well. In Pakistan, for example, activism against government corruption can be considered deviant, but it has played a very crucial role in bringing about the social change. Then deviance can also serve as a way for individuals to express their individuality and challenge the societal expectations. It is not necessary that whatever is going on in practice is appreciable, is ideal, and is positive. Many things are negatively occurring, but in the society, they have reached the level of normality. Unfortunately, such as corruption, such as bribe, we have started to consider these things as normal. However, if someone adopts deviant behavior and resists it, then later on its positive consequences may be negative. However, deviance can also lead to social stigma and exclusion from the mainstream society. So it depends on how your deviant behavior is, if it is extremely extreme, then definitely the society will resist it and it will have a stereotypical attitude and will develop stigma towards you. For example, terrorism, a terrorist is considered a deviant person and his behavior is always labeled as anti-social behavior and the society resists it very strongly and opposes it. So the functions of deviance can also vary across different cultures and societies. So it depends on which cultural and historical context deviance is committed, its reaction or sanctions are also born in the same context.