What term describes the initial act that is characterized as deviant behavior?

The term that describes the initial act characterized as deviant behavior is primary deviance. This concept is rooted in the theory of labeling, which suggests that an individual engages in a behavior that is considered deviant according to social norms. Primary deviance is the first instance of deviant conduct that does not significantly alter the individual's self-concept or societal perception of that person. Essentially, it is a transient act that does not lead to a long-term label of deviance.

The significance of primary deviance lies in its ability to highlight how deviance can be situational and contextual. While it may violate societal norms, individuals often do not come to identify themselves as deviant after a single or infrequent act. Primary deviance can lead to secondary deviance, which occurs when an individual internalizes the deviant label and continues to engage in deviant behavior. However, the key distinction is that primary deviance is the initial act that may or may not lead to further deviant behaviors or labels.