Learning objectives
The educational objective is to provide a conceptual introduction to the sociological study of deviance, which is useful for better understanding the social changes that have occurred within contemporary culture, with particular reference to the analysis of phenomena considered as deviances. In this perspective, the contribution provided by the main socio-criminological theories will be crucial, through a journey that will illustrate their formation and subsequent transformation in different epochs and contexts. Knowledge of these topics allows students to have a suitable cultural toolbox for the critical evaluation of the evolution of crime and deviance in contemporary societies.
Prerequisites
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Course unit content
One part of the program focuses on the relationships between sociology of deviance and other social sciences, highlighting the presence of different and sometimes conflicting paradigms, such as the Classical School and the Positive School in criminology. The historical and evolutionary aspect of the discipline will be addressed, followed by a closer examination of specific theoretical contributions that have sparked intense debates in criminological disciplines.
After an initial section that covers major schools of thought and key theories in sociology of deviance and their authors, there will be a monographic section that will encompass various specific themes. Among the topics addressed:
- Issues related to formal social control and the exercise of power by authorities and law enforcement will be explored in depth.
- Matters pertaining to the protection and prevention of abuse against minors in institutional contexts will be examined.
- The ideas of one of the foremost figures in deviance sociology, H.S. Becker, will be thoroughly explored.
Throughout the course, socio-criminological theories, thematic deep dives, and participatory activities will be present.
Full programme
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Bibliography
- Dino A., Rinaldi C., (a cura di) Sociologia della devianza e del crimine. Prospettive, ambiti e sviluppi contemporanei, Mondadori, 2021 (Only select chapters from Part One of the text, approximately chapters 1 to 15).
- A monographic text of choice from:
- H.S. Becker, Outsiders. Studi di sociologia della devianza, Meltemi, 2017.
- R. Sette, S. Tuzza, Promuovere ambienti educativi sicuri. Prevenire gli abusi nei contesti ecclesiali, Editrice-Ave, 2021.
- G. Fabini, E. Gargiulo, S. Tuzza, Polizia. Un vocabolario dell'ordine, Mondadori, 2023 (in corso di pubblicazione).
Further instructions on the adopted texts will be provided during the course presentation.
Teaching methods
Lectures, video screenings, and group presentations in the classroom. The course indeed involves active engagement of students through participatory activities in the classroom. In agreement with the professor, opportunities will be arranged to dedicate a portion of the teaching to group work with in-class presentations, allowing participants to take center stage in the process of education and training and in the learning of specific tools in the subject matter.
Assessment methods and criteria
The final assessment consists of a written exam consisting of three open-ended questions to which the student must respond within the assigned line limits for each answer (including one question on the monographic section) and 15 multiple-choice questions. The questions cover the entire course program and the student's chosen monographic section. The exam will focus on the following areas of learning:
• Knowledge and understanding of the issues and topics covered during the lectures.
• Applied knowledge and understanding in the field of social service, particularly by linking theoretical learning with seminars and exercises.
• Autonomy of judgment, particularly by formulating interpretative hypotheses and personal reflections on the complex themes presented in the course.
• Communication skills of the student, evaluating their ability to describe and argue their learnings.
• Ability to learn, retain, and rework the learnings, even in a personal manner.
The evaluation criteria will include clarity, critical reflection, and personal contributions. The final score is obtained by summing the scores obtained in the 15 multiple-choice questions and the 3 open-ended questions. An additional bonus score is available for students who choose to participate in group presentations, not exceeding two points in the final computation but with the possibility of achieving honors. Each correct answer is assessed based on the demonstrated ability to apply knowledge and understanding (multiple-choice questions) and exercise autonomy of judgment while expressing oneself with correctness and appropriate vocabulary (open-ended questions). The use of supporting materials during the written exam is not allowed.
Assessment results will be provided through the Esse 3 platform, using the 'publication of results' mode, which allows students to decide within 7 days of receiving the results whether to accept or contest the grade awarded in the exam.
The course will include exercises through discussion groups and case studies. These teaching methods allow students to effectively plan their studies in relation to the expected knowledge and skills, while enabling the instructor to recalibrate and readjust parts of the program that may have already been covered. In any case, the instructor will conduct formative assessments informally, especially at the beginning of the course, by revisiting certain topics and encouraging open discussions at the start or end of the lectures.
Other information
Office hours with the professor for students will be held, by appointment, at the end of the lesson and subsequently, also by appointment, remotely via the MC TEAMS platform.
2030 agenda goals for sustainable development
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