In a sociological context, crime refers to behaviors that violate established laws and regulations within a society. It includes actions that are deemed unlawful and punishable by the legal system. These include acts such as theft, assault, drug trafficking, fraud, murder, and vandalism, among others. Sociologists study crime to understand its causes, consequences, and impact on individuals, communities, and society. On the other hand, conformity relates to individuals adhering to social norms, values, and expectations set by their community. It involves adjusting one’s behavior to align with the prevailing standards and expectations within a particular society or group. Conformity is an essential aspect of social order and stability as it ensures that individuals behave in a manner that is generally accepted and expected by others (Kubrin, Branic, & Hipp, 2022). By conformity, individuals demonstrate their willingness to abide by the rules and norms of their society, contributing to the cohesion and functioning of social groups and institutions. Conforming behavior helps maintain social order and contributes to a cohesive community.
