What is a common misconception about deviant burials?

The belief that deviant burials were due to mishaps during burial is a common misconception because it oversimplifies the complex social, cultural, and ritualistic dimensions associated with such burial practices. Deviant burials typically arise from a variety of social beliefs and concerns, rather than mere accidents. In many cultures, deviant burials reflect the community's efforts to confront fears regarding the deceased, such as concerns about the individual's life choices or their potential influence after death. This intentionality behind deviant burial practices is rooted in cultural meanings, rather than simply being the result of errors during the burial process.

Additionally, many deviant burials served specific societal functions, such as protecting the living from perceived threats posed by the deceased, which indicates a structured approach rather than a haphazard one. The other options do not capture the essence of this cultural significance, as they either overly define the nature of deviant burials in a specific context or misrepresent broader anthropological understandings.