Understanding The Sociological Theories Of Crime
The question I chose to respond to is to explain the sociological theories of crime. I chose to specifically focus on the labeling theory. The textbook definition describes labeling theory as examining the ascribing of a defiant behavior to another person by members of society
(Introduction to Sociology: pp.147). In other words, this means what is considered deviant, or the nonconformity of norms accepted by most people, is determined by the reactions of others to the inappropriate behavior, rather than by the behaviors or people who are committing them.
Therefore, individuals labeled deviant by society eventually allow themselves to believe it. As a result, what society accepts as deviant behavior can be different between one or another culture
and …show more content…
Therefore, because the crime is considered common and can be a regular act of deviance individuals who partake in the behavior will not be shunned or labeled negatively in society. On the other hand, primary deviance can possibly turn into secondary deviance.
Secondary deviance occurs when an individuals self concept and behavior changes after his or her actions are labeled as deviant by members of society (Introduction to Sociology: pp.
147). Therefore, when society labels an individual as deviant, the individual may change and take on negative actions and fulfill the role as a rebel against societies norms. Secondary deviance can explain why a high school student skips class and misbehaves, fighting during passing time or putting kids in lockers. In return, they get caught and punished, therefore would be viewed as a bad student or trouble maker. Now labeled as a trouble maker, the student would act more inappropriate and break more rules. This would mean they now realize their identity as a misbehaved student and act with negative behavior. Once labeled as a bad kid, people
(Introduction to Sociology: pp.147). In other words, this means what is considered deviant, or the nonconformity of norms accepted by most people, is determined by the reactions of others to the inappropriate behavior, rather than by the behaviors or people who are committing them.
Therefore, individuals labeled deviant by society eventually allow themselves to believe it. As a result, what society accepts as deviant behavior can be different between one or another culture
and …show more content…
Therefore, because the crime is considered common and can be a regular act of deviance individuals who partake in the behavior will not be shunned or labeled negatively in society. On the other hand, primary deviance can possibly turn into secondary deviance.
Secondary deviance occurs when an individuals self concept and behavior changes after his or her actions are labeled as deviant by members of society (Introduction to Sociology: pp.
147). Therefore, when society labels an individual as deviant, the individual may change and take on negative actions and fulfill the role as a rebel against societies norms. Secondary deviance can explain why a high school student skips class and misbehaves, fighting during passing time or putting kids in lockers. In return, they get caught and punished, therefore would be viewed as a bad student or trouble maker. Now labeled as a trouble maker, the student would act more inappropriate and break more rules. This would mean they now realize their identity as a misbehaved student and act with negative behavior. Once labeled as a bad kid, people