Labeling Theory

Labeling Theory The theory of labeling is defined as a view of deviance. According to being labeled a deviant person, is one that engages in deviant behaviors. Labeling theory was quite popular in the 1960s and early 1970s, but then fell into decline, partly as a result of the mixed results of empirical research (Criminal Law, 2010). The theory of labeling was originated from Howard Becker 's work in the 1960s; it explains why people 's behavior clashes with social norms (Boundless, 2009). With labeling theory it’s not until a label is given to someone by another in a position of some sort of social or economic power that the person actually becomes deviant. The concept of labeling theory can be broken down into different ways of categorizing an individual of having deviance. One of which can be a primary deviance. The behavior of Primary deviance is a person who does not conform to so call normal social standards. Although, the behavior might be temporary or concealed form other people (Criminal Law, 2010). A person who commits a deviant act does not see their self as being deviant and is not internalized as a part of their self-concept. I don’t believe that this concept would fall on a juvenile’s perspective when it comes to being labeled. There are some juveniles that do not accept what is told to them of what they are or what they may become. Most of these juveniles are delinquents they want to live by their own standards and will not accept the label of being deviant as their means of delinquent behaviors. Considering another category of deviance in labeling theory is secondary deviance. With secondary deviance a person’s behavior that does not meet social standards but is the behavior that is more sustained over a period of time. With Secondary deviance a person will continue to do the deviant behavior even after they have been caught and are so called labeled by that social institution (Crime Causation, 2010). After they have

References: Criminal Law. (2010). Labeling Theory its Strengths and Weaknesses. Retrieved from http://www.lawteacher.net/criminal-law/essays/labelling-theory-its-strengths-and-weaknesses.php Crime Causation. (January 17, 2010). Sociological Theories - Labeling Theory. Retrieved from http://law.jrank.org/pages/817/Crime-Causation-Sociological-Theories-Labeling-theory.html#ixzz0cziNc0ZO Boundless. (2009). Labeling Theory. Retrieved from https://www.boundless.com/sociology/understanding-deviance-social-control-and-crime/the-symbolic-interactionalist-perspective/labeling-theory/