Although the word “deviance” has a negative connotation in everyday language, sociologists recognize that deviance is not necessarily bad (Schoepflin 2011). In fact, from a structural functionalist perspective, one of the positive contributions of deviance is that it fosters social change.

Can deviance be a good thing?

Deviance in the workplace can actually be a good thing, as long as it's positive, say University of Michigan Business School researchers. ... student Scott Sonenshein define positive deviance as "intentional behaviors that significantly depart from the norms of a referent group in honorable ways."

Is deviance good or bad in a society?

As we have noted, deviance is generally perceived to be disruptive in society. It can weaken established social norms, and create division and disorder. But it also has other functions which are not necessarily harmful and may actually be beneficial to society. It is one way that social change occurs.