According to functionalist theories, a society is composed of different institutions, and each of them is significant for the social organization. Comparing society to a biological organism with its organs and systems, it can be stated that each of these institutions is important for the overall well-being.
Then, applying functionalist theory to defining deviant behavior, it can be stated that crime of other forms of violating the social norms is an integral part of the social system. For instance, one case of deviant behavior can help predict and control other deviant cases. If all community members complied with its rules, it could become a hindrance for future development. Thus, behaviors that were previously considered deviant are currently accepted as normal. Consequently, according to the functionalist theories, deviance is significant for fostering the changes and shifts in social norms and stimulating social institutions’ development.
As to the labeling theory, deviance is defined as not a part of the social interactions but as their result. By attaching certain labels to the behaviors of the minorities, members of the community predict their self-identity and behavior patterns. Therefore, functionalist and labeling theories emphasize different aspects. The functionalists concentrate on the consequences and role of deviance in the development of society. In contrast, the labeling theory sheds light upon the majorities’ attitudes as the main predictors of deviance.