Seekh Logo

AI-powered learning platform providing comprehensive practice questions, detailed explanations, and interactive study tools across multiple subjects.

Explore Subjects

Sciences
  • Astronomy
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
Humanities
  • Psychology
  • History
  • Philosophy

Learning Tools

  • Study Library
  • Practice Quizzes
  • Flashcards
  • Study Summaries
  • Q&A Bank
  • PDF to Quiz Converter
  • Video Summarizer
  • Smart Flashcards

Support

  • Help Center
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • Pricing

© 2025 Seekh Education. All rights reserved.

Seekh Logo
HomeHomework HelpsociologyLabeling Theory and Deviance

Labeling Theory and Deviance

Labeling theory explores how societal labels influence individual behavior and identity in the context of deviance. This theory posits that when a person is labeled as deviant, such as through punishment or social stigma, they may internalize this label and adopt a deviant identity, leading to secondary deviance. Understanding labeling theory is significant in sociology as it highlights the role of social interactions and perceptions in defining deviant behavior, thus impacting social responses and individual self-concept.

intermediate
2 hours
Sociology
0 views this week
Study FlashcardsQuick Summary
0

Overview

Labeling theory is a significant concept in sociology that explores how societal labels can influence individual behavior and identity. It posits that deviance is not an inherent quality of an act but is constructed through social interactions and reactions. When individuals are labeled as deviant, ...

Quick Links

Study FlashcardsQuick SummaryPractice Questions

Key Terms

Deviance
Behavior that violates social norms.

Example: Stealing is considered deviant in most societies.

Labeling
The process of defining and categorizing individuals based on their behavior.

Example: A student labeled as a 'troublemaker' may act out more.

Stigmatization
The process of marking someone as socially unacceptable.

Example: Mental health issues can lead to stigmatization.

Self-Fulfilling Prophecy
When a belief or expectation brings about its own fulfillment.

Example: If a teacher expects a student to fail, the student may not try.

Social Norms
Rules and expectations by which a society guides the behavior of its members.

Example: In many cultures, punctuality is a social norm.

Primary Deviance
Initial acts of rule-breaking that do not result in a label.

Example: A teenager shoplifting once.

Related Topics

Social Control
The mechanisms, strategies, and institutions that regulate individual behavior in society.
intermediate
Criminal Justice System
The system of practices and institutions for upholding social control, deterring, and mitigating crime.
intermediate
Stigma and Identity
How stigma affects personal identity and social interactions.
intermediate

Key Concepts

Social LabelsDevianceSelf-Fulfilling ProphecyStigmatization