How is normalization of deviance related to the Challenger explosion?

Normalization of deviance is a term first coined by sociologist Diane Vaughan when reviewing the Challenger disaster. Vaughan describes this phenomenon as occurring when people within an organization become so insensitive to deviant practice that it no longer feels wrong.

What does the phrase normalizing deviance mean?

The normalization of deviance is the incremental change to standards we once thought inviolate, turning actions once thought to be unacceptable into the new norm. The path to normalizing deviance can be paved by the lack of proper training, an experience-based ego, or expertise-based over-confidence.

What factors can give rise to normalization of deviance?

How do you correct normalization of deviance?

In addition, Vaughn states that the best solution for the normalisation of deviance is, ‘being clear about standards and rewarding whistle blowers. Also, create a culture that is team-based such that each person would feel like they were letting their colleagues down if they were to break the rules.

What does Diane Vaughan mean by normalization of deviance?

Dr. Diane Vaughan of Columbia University coined the term “normalization of deviance” in her analysis of the Challenger space shuttle disaster. In her book, she explains that “normalization of deviance” is the process by which deviance from correct or proper behavior becomes normalized in a corporate culture.

How does the normalization of deviance work?

Here’s how the normalization of deviance works: Early in the shuttle program, the appearance of small leaks from the booster rockets’ rubber seals was an unexpected and alarming event. NASA assigned a working group, which dutifully studied the issue and determined the leaks would be manageable as long as they didn’t exceed a certain threshold.

When does deviance become normal in the first response World?

It is easy to get drawn into deviance in the first response world. We operate so often under conditions of stress, consequence, time compression and changing conditions that taking shortcuts to expedite successful outcomes can become, in itself, normal. Over time, deviant behavior can become the norm.

Is there one and done for safety deviance?

There is never a ‘one-and-done’ when it comes to deviance from safety best practices. Just one successful safety short-cut can start a self-sustaining inertia of safety deviance. Report near misses.