A high school student, after being labeled as a troublemaker by teachers and peers, begins to embrace this identity and starts skipping classes regularly. Which category does this behavior exemplify according to labeling theory?

The behavior of the high school student exemplifies the concept of "self-fulfilling prophecy" within labeling theory. When teachers and peers label the student as a troublemaker, it influences how the student sees themselves. Instead of trying to change or prove them wrong, the student starts to accept this negative label and acts accordingly, such as skipping classes. This creates a cycle where the label leads to more deviant behavior, reinforcing the original label. For example, if the student thinks of themselves as a troublemaker, they might feel justified in skipping class, further solidifying that identity in the eyes of others.