The Influence Of The Labeling Theory Of Deviance

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“The labeling theory of deviance is the idea that deviance and conformity result not so much from what people do as far as how others respond to those actions” (Macionis 205). If someone is told they are something over and over again, it can begin to shape how they see themselves (Lecture). Primary and secondary deviance can be linked when a single norm violation is witnessed and then labeled, leading to ownership of the label (Macionis 206).

“Secondary deviance marks the start of what Erving Goffman calls a deviant career” (Macionis 206). “As people become career deviants, they usually acquire a powerfully negative label known as a stigma” (Macionis 206). The understanding of stigma offers the explanation to why individuals continue in