1. The gradual deterioration of social structures, values, institutions, and moral standards within a society
Many scholars argue that the rise in crime and loss of community values are signs of societal decay.
Muitos estudiosos argumentam que o aumento da criminalidade e a perda de valores comunitários são sinais de decadência social.
2. The decline in the quality of life, cohesion, and functioning of a community or civilization
The documentary examined the societal decay in abandoned urban neighborhoods.
O documentário examinou a decadência social em bairros urbanos abandonados.