Labeling Theory

The labeling theory can be defined as a theory based on social deviations which result in the labeling of an individual; however, this is a very simplified definition. This theory studies the process of social definition and society’s reaction to criminals and deviant behavior. It is unique in the way in which it concerns deviance. According to this theory, the importance of the study is heavily on the audience, not the individual who committed the crime. The importance of the study is primarily focused on the reactions of society. Thus, the labeling theory is not concerned with the initial impulse for a violation, but rather how the labeling transforms the behavior into a pattern (Berger, Free, and Searles 2009). Explanations relating

A new label is attached to this person and becomes what people remember first about that individual; in other words, their “master status.” This part of their life (the crime committed) is now the most well-known and remembered aspect. The labeling process also extends to social groups and possibly organizations. Exclusion from current groups or inclusion into new groups made up of other criminal members. An overall feeling of being treated differently by peers, parents, friends, and society in general is then experienced. A spoiled identity may also be created, causing the person to experience stigma. The labeling process could also unfold retrospective reinterpretation, a reevaluation of past behavior in light of their new behavior. For example, one may look at a criminal and think back at their life and create the belief that there has always been something a little “different” or “off” about that particular person (O’Brien Lecture). Not only may the person that is labeled criminal or deviant experience the situations above, but they will also receive consequences for these

First is the commitment ceremony. This is the fact that once a person has committed a crime and been labeled for it, there is no going back. An individual cannot undo a crime they have committed. At this point in the process, the person has created a self-fulfilling prophecy. The consequences are then faced that the person is treated differently and therefore, continues their deviant or criminal actions. Similar to this, the dramatization of evil explains the making of a criminal and the temptation to continue the criminal behavior (O’Brien Lecture). The process of identifying and labeling an individual creates special treatments and becomes a way of stimulating and provoking the behavior. Lastly, the process of labeling creates deviant and criminal amplification. It creates media hype, drawing attention upon the person and his or her actions (Berger, Free, and Searles