Labeling theory explains how individuals adopt deviant behaviors when labeled as such by society, impacting their actions and attitudes. It emphasizes the influence of stigmatization and external labels in shaping deviant identities.
Labeling theory suggests that individuals become deviant when a deviant label is applied to them, leading them to adopt the behaviors associated with that label. This theory argues that people become deviant as a result of others forcing that identity upon them, which works through stigmatization.
In the context of the scenario provided, if a convicted sexual offender is released on parole and arrested again for repeated sexual crimes, labeling theory would explain this as the offender being labeled deviant by society, thereby accepting a new master status associated with deviance.
Labeling theory highlights how the social construction of deviant behavior and nonlegal factors such as appearance, race, and social class influence the frequency of labeling individuals as deviant in society.
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