Introduction
Deviant behavior refers to actions or beliefs that deviate from social norms and are considered unacceptable by the majority of society. Pop culture, including television shows, movies, music, and books, often portrays deviant behavior as a way to challenge societal norms and bring attention to controversial issues. This portrayal can vary, from showing deviant behavior as taboo and criminal to romanticizing it and showing it as respectable or acceptable (Akrivos & Antoniou, 2019). By examining how deviant behavior is portrayed in pop culture, one can gain insights into society’s attitudes toward such behavior and the way it is perceived by different demographics. The present essay will examine the example of “Breaking Bad,” how deviant behavior is portrayed in it, and what this portrayal says about society’s attitudes toward deviance.
Discussion
In “Breaking Bad,” the deviant behavior is depicted through the actions of the main character, Walter White. White, who is initially portrayed as a typical high school chemistry teacher, turns to producing illegal drugs after he is diagnosed with cancer and feels the need to provide financial stability for his family (Akrivos & Antoniou, 2019). The specific deviant behavior portrayed in the show is the production and sale of methamphetamine, a highly dangerous and illegal substance. This deviant behavior is a departure from the norms and values of society, which generally frowns upon drug production and trafficking. White’s transformation from an ordinary high school teacher to a methamphetamine producer and seller highlights the allure of deviant behavior and the difficulties in resisting it, even for individuals who are initially law-abiding citizens.
The show explores the complex motivations behind deviant behavior and the ways in which individuals may rationalize their actions to justify their involvement in illegal activities. White’s family, friends, and neighbors, as well as law enforcement and the criminal underworld, are among the demographics of the group that observed this behavior. Depending on who is involved, the responses to White’s abnormal behavior vary widely throughout the series.
At first, White’s wife and kids don’t know about his illegal activities, so they’re astonished and dismayed to learn the truth. White’s friends and community people are also shocked by his behavior, and some are even appalled. Law enforcement and members of the criminal underworld have a more complex reaction to White’s deviant behavior. On the one hand, law enforcement is tasked with stopping the production and sale of illegal drugs and thus views White’s actions as a threat to society. On the other hand, members of the criminal underworld are involved in the production and sale of drugs themselves and thus have a more accepting attitude towards White’s actions, as long as they do not interfere with their own operations.
Throughout the series, the group attempts to control White’s deviant behavior in various ways. Law enforcement actively tries to apprehend White and dismantle his drug operation. White’s wife and children attempt to intervene and convince him to abandon his criminal activities. Members of the criminal underworld attempt to co-opt or eliminate White as a competitor in the drug trade. The reactions to and attempts to control White’s deviant behavior highlight the complex attitudes society has towards deviant behavior and the consequences that result from engaging in such actions.
Conclusion
It can be concluded that in “Breaking Bad,” the motivations and justifications for deviant behavior are delved into through the depiction of Walter White’s actions and the responses of those around him. Society’s differing perspectives on deviant behavior are also showcased, from the enforcement of laws against it to the more accepting views of those in the criminal world. This representation of deviant behavior in popular culture serves as a vivid illustration of how it can spark discussions on sensitive topics and provide insights into society’s views on deviance.
Reference
Akrivos, D., & Antoniou, A. K. (2019). Crime, deviance and popular culture: International and multidisciplinary perspectives. Springer.