Labelling Theory and Crime

These flashcards cover key concepts related to labelling theory and its implications for crime and justice, including definitions, theorists' viewpoints, and factors influencing labelling.

What does labelling mean in the context of sociology?

Labelling refers to the process through which individuals are identified and categorized based on their actions or characteristics, often leading to stigmatization.

What is a self-fulfilling prophecy?

A self-fulfilling prophecy occurs when a person internalizes a label and begins to act in ways consistent with that label.

Who are Moral Entrepreneurs according to Howard Becker?

Moral Entrepreneurs are individuals who lead a moral crusade to create new laws and define certain behaviors as deviant.

How does Becker define a deviant?

A deviant is someone who can be successfully labelled as such by society.

What example does Cicourel give regarding police interaction with youth?

Cicourel found that police officers often stereotype and thus patrol working-class areas more intensively, leading to more arrests.

What are primary and secondary deviance according to Lemert?

Primary deviance refers to minor acts that have not been publicly labelled, while secondary deviance involves acts that provoke a societal reaction and a label.

What impact does labeling have on crime statistics?

Labeling can distort crime statistics, as the decisions made by control agencies influence how crimes are recorded and understood.

What is disintegrative shaming?

Disintegrative shaming labels the individual as 'bad', such as saying 'I am a thief', which can lead to further deviant behavior.

What is reintegrative shaming?

Reintegrative shaming labels the act as bad but not the person, promoting forgiveness and reducing stigma.

What are some factors that influence who gets labelled as deviant?

Factors include interactions with social control agencies, appearance, background, personal biography, gender, class, ethnicity, and situational context.