Labelling, Conflict, and Criminalization

Youth Justice — Week 6. From the comprehensive study notes.

How does labelling theory change the question about crime?

It examines how social reactions define deviance and shape identity, rather than only asking why individuals offend.

What is primary deviance?

Initial deviant acts, before a deviant identity develops through public reaction.

What is secondary deviance?

Deviance linked to adopting a deviant identity through reactions to earlier acts.

What is a master status?

A label that becomes a person’s main defining identity and overshadows other characteristics.

How do liberal and radical conflict theories differ?

Liberal conflict theory emphasizes unequal power in defining deviance; radical conflict theory locates crime and criminalization in capitalism.