Changes in Reactions to Deviance: The Issue of Legalization of Marijuana

Abstract

This paper examines the changes in societal reactions to deviance and some of the factors which might propt such changes. As an example, the issue of legalization of marijuana is examined. Data used are from two national sample surveys conducted in 1973 and 1976. It is found that factors which promote tolerance of nonconformity are also important in promoting changes in societal reactions to deviance. Generally, younger, better educated, less religious, and more tolerant respondents are more likely than others (although substantial gains have been made in most social categories) to favor legalization of marijuana. It is suggested that changes in reactions to deviance occur partly depending upon the exposure to a given deviant act and the situated context, and partly on the basis of those factors which promote tolerance of nonconformity.