This article reports a study investigating deviant behavior in normal families. It examines nonproblem children and their families in their homes. It provides information on rates of deviant behavior for children without identified behavioral difficulties and the interaction patterns of family members who deal with these children. It analyzes: (1) rate of deviant child behavior, (2) agents who affect it, and (3) relationship between rate of deviant child behavior and patterns of family interaction. Thirty-three families with a child 4 to 6 years old without treated behavior problems participated. Both parents, not under current psychiatric care, were living in the home, which included no more than four children. Results indicate that over 96% of the average child's behavior is nondeviant and 35% of it represents positive social interaction. Even the most deviant child displayed 88% appropriate behavior. The average child, however, puts out responses which parents consider deviant once every 3.17 minutes. The probability is that the child will not obey one out of every four commands the parents give. The conclusion is that deviant behavior is more successful in coercing people to respond. (DJ)