In this dissertation, two large and seemingly unrelated digital footprints of social behavior are analyzed. The first is an extensive record of fighting interactions in North American Ice Hockey at both the professional and developmental levels. The second is a dataset containing records of performances in the adult film industry. While the contexts of these two phenomena are seemingly distinct, in both cases we see how individuals can remain in their professions through embracing more stigmatized or potentially deviant roles or acts. In the case of ice hockey, the emergence of a semi-designated fighting role is empirically demonstrated. While the act of fighting is somewhat controversial within the game, it is an established way for individual players who are less talented at other aspects of the sport to secure a position on the roster of a professional team. Within the case of adult film, it is well known that careers are short and there is a constant demand for new talent. However, the data demonstrates that a performer’s willingness to perform in perhaps more deviant behavior on camera may enhance the amount of time they can stay in the adult film industry. In either case, it is shown that individuals who are willing to embrace less conventional and desirable roles or behaviors can enhance their longevity within competitive occupations that offer little job security.