PERSPECTIVES ON CRIME: INTERACTIONISM

Which theorists are associated with the Interactionist perspective?

Howard S. Becker; Edwin Lemert.

What are the basic assumptions of the Interactionist perspective?

It focuses on the interactions between deviants and those who label them as deviant; it explains why certain individuals and groups are labeled deviant; it suggests individuals actively react to external forces by attaching meaning to events before deciding how to respond.

What is Becker's Labelling Theory?

Becker argues that deviance is not inherent in an act but is the result of others labeling it as deviant; meaning and perceptions attached to an act determine whether it is considered deviant.

What role does negotiation play in Becker's Labelling Theory?

Deviance can result from failed negotiations between the accused and the accuser; if negotiations succeed, the act is not labeled deviant; if unsuccessful, the act is deemed deviant.

What is the 'self-fulfilling prophecy' in Becker's Labelling Theory?

A labeled individual may internalize the label as their master status; this affects how others see and treat them, leading to further deviance and eventual acceptance of a deviant identity.

What are the stages of the self-fulfilling prophecy according to Becker?

Initial public labeling, causing shame and marginalization; further deviance due to limited opportunities and societal rejection; acceptance of a deviant identity and integration into deviant subcultures.

What is the difference between primary and secondary deviance according to Lemert?

Primary deviance involves acts that are not publicly labeled, with no effect on identity; secondary deviance occurs when society reacts to an act, labeling the individual, which impacts their self-concept and future actions.

What examples illustrate primary and secondary deviance?

Primary: A child stealing from parents without being caught, remaining seen as honest; secondary: A child caught stealing is labeled dishonest, leading to societal rejection and a criminal identity.

What criticisms are made of the Interactionist perspective?

It ignores acts inherently considered deviant, like killing or incest; it overlooks individual agency in choosing deviance; it fails to explore the root causes of deviance; it oversimplifies deviance by focusing on labeling.

How does the Interactionist perspective differ from other theories of crime?

It emphasizes the subjective process of labeling and interaction rather than external forces or societal norms; it focuses on how deviance is constructed through social reactions.