Labelling Theory
Sociology: AQA A Level, topic 10.1.5
Labelling Theory
Lemert studied the difference between what he calls ‘primary’ and ‘secondary’ deviance.
Primary deviance
- Although technically illegal the criminal label is not attached as people tend to see it as ‘primary deviance’.
- As the criminal label is not attached, it does not affect the ‘self-concept’ of the individual and a result no labelling takes place.
Secondary deviance
- An act that generates a strong response and results in a label being attached to the offender.
- After being labelled, an offender may experience consequences such as punishment or humiliation.
- This label becomes the person’s master status and therefore their controlling identity.
- This leads to the self-fulfilling prophecy and as a result more crime.
Deviance amplification spiral
- Secondary deviance causes a deviance amplification spiral.
- If a moral entrepreneur changes the public perception on a particular act from ‘primary’ to secondary’ deviance, it could lead to further crime.
The media
- The media become central to the deviancy amplification spiral.
- They represent the deviant group in a negative way and as a result the self-fulfilling prophecy will take hold and more crime will occur.
Braithwaite
- Braithwaite suggests that labelling can be used to reintegrate offenders, rather than marginalise them.
- He refers to this process as reintegrative shaming.
Reintegrative shaming
- He claims ‘reintegrative shaming’ is more effective and focuses more on the act, rather than the individual.
- Braithwaite says this is more useful than disintegrative shaming that labels the criminal and outcasts them from society.
Test yourself on Labelling Theory
Who studied the difference between what he calls ‘primary’ and ‘secondary’ deviance?
Who studied disintegrative and reintegrative shaming?