Which theory of deviance suggests that deviance is a result of social labels and the societal reaction to those labels?

The theory of deviance that focuses on social labels and the reactions to those labels is called labeling theory. This theory suggests that when society labels someone as deviant, that person may start to see themselves in that way and behave accordingly. For example, if a teenager is caught shoplifting and everyone starts calling them a "thief," the teenager might begin to accept that label and continue to engage in deviant behavior. The key idea is that labels can influence a person's identity and actions, making them more likely to act in ways that fit the label society has given them. This shows how important social reactions are in shaping our behavior and identity.