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Essay / Research Paper Abstract
A 5 page paper which examines the labeling theory as it applies to criminology. Bibliography lists 5 sources.
Page Count:
5 pages (~225 words per page)
File: JR7_RAlabt.rtf
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Unformatted sample text from the term paper:
(Crime Theories, 2006). There are many differing opinions regarding the notion of labeling in relationship to criminals and for the most part it seems that the labeling theorists all argue
how damaging labeling can be for society and for the individual. The following paper defines labeling theory, and then examines the strengths and weaknesses of labeling theory. Labeling
Theory(ies) Howard Becker is often argued as the father of the labeling theory and he argued that the individuals who "are likely to engage in rule breaking behavior" are "essentially
different than members of the rule-making or rule-abiding society" (Howard Beckers Labeling Theory, 2006). They are individuals who see themselves at odds with society and Becker termed them as "outsiders"
(Howard Beckers Labeling Theory, 2006). He offered up the notion of the primary and the secondary deviance, with the secondary deviance occurring when a person is caught in negative behavior
and labeled (Howard Beckers Labeling Theory, 2006). Labeling theory, as it relates to people who engage in criminal activity, "argues that anyone facing
such an overwhelming, negative labeling social reaction will eventually become more like the label because that is the only way out for their identify formation" (Crime Theories, 2006). It also
involves the notion that it is perhaps best not to do anything to minor offenders because labeling them criminals and punishing them will only make true criminals our of them
(Crime Theories, 2006). One author notes that, "Much of labeling theory comes from the general sociological perspective known as symbolic interaction theory.
This theory states that reality is to a large degree defined by shared social symbols" and when enough individuals believe in one thing, it becomes true for the society (Jessicas
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