What is the process of constructing and applying definitions of deviance known as?

The process of constructing and applying definitions of deviance is best characterized by the term "moral enterprise." This concept refers to the efforts made by individuals or groups to influence societal norms and values regarding what is considered deviant behavior. Moral entrepreneurs are typically key players in this process; they actively advocate for the redefinition of deviant behaviors and often seek to enforce these new standards through policy changes or social movements.

Moral enterprise encompasses the broader framework within which moral entrepreneurs operate, emphasizing the importance of societal perceptions in shaping notions of deviance. It highlights how social constructs, influenced by cultural, economic, and political factors, define what behaviors are deemed acceptable or unacceptable within a society.

In contrast, while terms like "moral crusaders" and "moral entrepreneurs" refer to the individuals who take action within this framework, moral enterprise refers to the overarching process itself, emphasizing the relationship between advocacy and the resulting changes in societal definitions of deviance.