Which term describes actions that fall outside of societal norms?

The term that describes actions falling outside of societal norms is "deviant acts." This concept is central to criminology and sociology, as it highlights behavior that diverges from the established expectations or standards of a given society or community. Deviance is not inherently criminal; instead, it encompasses a wide range of behaviors that may be frowned upon or stigmatized by society, including those that might be socially acceptable in certain contexts but nonetheless seen as odd or unconventional.

The strength of the concept of deviant acts lies in its focus on the social reaction to behavior rather than the behavior itself. For instance, behaviors like wearing unusual clothing or expressing unconventional opinions could be deemed deviant even if they are not illegal. Understanding what constitutes deviance is crucial for examining the boundaries of acceptable behavior and the reactions of society to those who transgress those boundaries.

In contrast, the other terms have different implications. Criminal acts refer specifically to behaviors that violate the law and can lead to legal penalties. Legal acts encompass actions that are permissible within the framework of the law. Normative behavior includes actions that align with the expectations and norms of society, representing what is considered "normal" or acceptable.