The courts are excessively punitive toward adult women who deviate from which of the following norms?

The correct answer pertains to the punitive measures courts impose on adult women who deviate from heterosexual norms. Societal expectations often dictate that women conform to certain behaviors and roles within heterosexual relationships. When women do not align with these expectations—whether by expressing their sexual agency, engaging in same-sex relationships, or rejecting traditional roles—they may face harsher penalties compared to their male counterparts or women who conform to established norms. This phenomenon is rooted in societal views about femininity and sexuality, which can lead to a perception that women who deviate from heterosexual norms are somehow threatening to social stability or moral values.

The other options pertain to different societal structures but do not capture the same level of punitive action associated specifically with deviation from sexual orientation or behavior norms. Gender norms do play a role, but they encompass broader expectations and stereotypes not limited to sexual orientation. Likewise, socioeconomic status and parental guidelines influence judicial outcomes but are not as directly correlated with excessive punitive measures as deviations from heterosexual norms are.