Analyzing Deviant Behavior- Group Demographics and Reactions
Behaviors that are deviant from the standard social norms and rules, whether trivial or substantial, greatly impact social perceptions. One kind of dishonest activity that condemns people universally is shoplifting. This paper inspects the case of New Zealand lawmaker Golriz Ghahraman, whose shoplifting was supposedly part of the scope of public debate. The analysis of the demographics of those present at the shoplifting and their responses after it, as well as the possible ways of deterring it, reveals ideas and thoughts of society towards shoplifting and its consequences.
Deviant Behavior
Shoplifting is deviant behavior, as shown by the case of Golriz Ghahraman, a New Zealand lawmaker who had to resign after allegations came that she had stolen from two clothing stores. The behavior characterized by shoplifting from retail stores is generally shunned and condemned by society because it is perceived as unethical and illegal (Kim et al., 2021). The behavior is demonstrated by the consequences that befell Ghahraman, including resignation from the Parliament. Shoplifting at this high-end shop has since earned wide press coverage and disapproval from the public, with more media attention devoted to this case.
Demographics of the Group That Witnessed the Behavior
The main audiences who saw the behavior comprised the domestic public and the media consumers in New Zealand. Being a well-known lawmaker with a successful past as a United Nations human rights specialist, her case pictures of the media became very popular among audiences from different walks of life. With her unique identity as a Green Party member and the first refugee to be elected member of the NZ Parliament, Ghahraman’s shoplifting charges captured the attention of her constituents, political analysts, and fellow party members (Bubola, 2024). Ultimately, the demographic makeup of those witnessing the behavior ranged from constituents and political colleagues to the broader public and media consumers within New Zealand.
How the Group Reacted to the Behavior
The reaction from the group to Golriz Ghahraman’s shoplifting incident was one of astonishment and disbelief, even more so because she is a respected member of the community, a lawmaker, and an advocate for human rights. Some of those questioning the allegations remained in disbelief since it came from someone who had worked as an advocate and had a good image. Demands marked the response for accountability and investigation, which breathed an air of expecting good behavior from public officials.
How the Group Attempted to Control the Deviant Behavior
Indeed, the group tried to correct and handle the minor deviation by engaging in a police investigation into the purported shoplifting by Golriz Ghahraman. The purpose of this legal action was to exact accountability of her for her actions and enforce the rule of law, thus showing a deep and abiding commitment to imposing consequences for breaking the norm even on someone who enjoys the privilege of being in the higher social stratum. Moreover, the most notable implication that can be concluded from Ghahraman’s fading from the Member of Parliament’s seat is a mechanism of repression; this act signifies an acknowledgment of the misdeeds, and it is also an effort to prevent further damage to her reputation and the party’s credibility.
Conclusion
The example of Golriz Ghahraman’s shoplifting cases shows that society disapproves of unethical and illegal behaviors. Strategies to discourage shoplifters and the general opinions in the community about them are presented as the investigation moves forward through the lenses of demographics, responses, and measures to regulate them. While there are several complicating variables in criminal behavior, ranging from stress to mental health, the overarching societal reaction will eventually be shaped by the need to promote accountability, integrity, legal adherence, and legality.
References
Bubola, E. (2024, January 16). New Zealand Lawmaker Resigns After Shoplifting Allegations. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/16/world/asia/new-zealand-lawmaker-shoplifting-golriz-ghahraman.html
Kim, S., Hwang, S., & Hong, S. H. (2021). Identifying shoplifting behaviors and inferring behavior intention based on human action detection and sequence analysis. Advanced Engineering Informatics, 50, 101399. https://doi.org/10.1016/
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Question 
Choose a deviant behavior to research. Locate references (e.g., current news stories, pop culture, and reality TV shows) that convey deviant behavior being accepted or rejected/scorned.
Write an essay of 500-750 words, summarizing your findings. Include the following:
What was the deviant behavior?
Analyzing Deviant Behavior- Group Demographics and Reactions
What were the demographics of the group that witnessed the behavior?
How did the group react to the behavior?
Did the group attempt to control this deviant behavior? How?