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<p><b>New page</b></p><div>[[File:Labeling_Theory_Diagram.png|thumb|Labeling Theory Diagram]] '''Labeling theory''' is a concept in [[sociology]] and [[criminology]] that explores how the self-identity and behavior of individuals may be influenced or determined by the terms used to describe or classify them. It is associated with the work of [[Howard Becker]], who is often credited with the development of the theory in his book ''Outsiders: Studies in the Sociology of Deviance''.<br />
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==Overview==<br />
Labeling theory posits that deviance is not inherent to an act, but rather the result of the social response to the act. When a person is labeled as deviant, they may internalize this label and act accordingly. This theory is a part of the broader [[symbolic interactionism]] framework, which emphasizes the role of social interactions in the development of self-concept.<br />
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==Key Concepts==<br />
* '''Primary Deviance''': This refers to initial acts of rule-breaking. These acts may be minor and not result in the individual being labeled as deviant.<br />
* '''Secondary Deviance''': This occurs when a person begins to take on a deviant identity due to the reactions of others to their primary deviance.<br />
* '''Stigma''': A powerful negative social label that changes a person's self-concept and social identity.<br />
* '''Master Status''': A status that has exceptional importance for social identity, often shaping a person's entire life.<br />
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==Historical Background==<br />
Labeling theory emerged in the 1960s during a period of social upheaval and change. It was influenced by earlier work in [[symbolic interactionism]] by scholars such as [[George Herbert Mead]] and [[Erving Goffman]]. [[Howard Becker]]'s work in the 1960s provided a comprehensive framework for understanding how societal reactions to deviance can lead to further deviant behavior.<br />
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==Applications==<br />
Labeling theory has been applied to various areas, including:<br />
* [[Criminal justice]]: Understanding how the criminal justice system labels individuals and the impact of these labels on future behavior.<br />
* [[Mental health]]: Examining how diagnoses and labels affect individuals' self-concept and behavior.<br />
* [[Education]]: Investigating how labeling students as "gifted" or "troubled" influences their academic performance and self-esteem.<br />
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==Criticisms==<br />
Labeling theory has faced several criticisms, including:<br />
* It may overemphasize the role of societal reaction in the development of deviance.<br />
* It does not adequately address the initial causes of deviant behavior.<br />
* It may not account for individuals who resist or reject labels.<br />
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==See Also==<br />
* [[Deviance (sociology)]]<br />
* [[Social control]]<br />
* [[Self-fulfilling prophecy]]<br />
* [[Social constructionism]]<br />
* [[Moral panic]]<br />
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==References==<br />
{{Reflist}}<br />
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==Further Reading==<br />
* Becker, Howard. ''Outsiders: Studies in the Sociology of Deviance''.<br />
* Goffman, Erving. ''Stigma: Notes on the Management of Spoiled Identity''.<br />
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==External Links==<br />
{{Wiktionary|labeling theory}}<br />
{{Wikiquote|labeling theory}}<br />
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[[Category:Sociology]]<br />
[[Category:Criminology]]<br />
[[Category:Social theories]]<br />
[[Category:Symbolic interactionism]]<br />
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