Labeling Theory Symbolic Interactionist Analysis of Deviance Labeling

Labeling Theory Symbolic Interactionist Analysis of Deviance

Labeling Theory refers to how the self-identity and behavior of individuals may be influenced by the terms used to describe and classify them. Criminal (Thief, Sex Offender, Druggie) Jock DK Emo Nerd

Labeling Theory People are labeled a certain way. Oftentimes that label comes with it, expectations of behavior. Both other people and the person labeled buy into the label, embracing it and the expectations that come with it. This leads to a Stigma A powerfully negative label that greatly changes a person’s self concept and social identity.

Labeling Theory Once a person has been labeled, other people often engage in retrospective and projective labeling. Retrospective- explanation of past behavior Projective- Assumption of future behavior Labeling is closely linked to stereotyping. We want to think we know people. Labeling allows us to interpret and expect certain behaviors. It makes people much less complex than they really are.

Retrospective Labeling Retrospective Labeling- Explaining someone’s past actions using current stigmas and labels Jerry Sandusky- “he always used to like to be around children. ” Student Caught Cheating- “I’ve been curious how he did so well in the past. ”

Projective Labeling Projective Labeling- predicting and treating people as if they will always act and be as they are currently labeled. Projective Labeling is an assumption that people will always behave and act as they are currently labeled. Subjective Grading is hard for teachers Sex Offenders can not be near schools, playgrounds, etc. Labeling in Education: Advanced Students and Special Ed.

Labeling Creates Perpetutity We never expect people to change. In fact, we assume they never will. This assumption guides our interpretation of people’s actions Skipping School (Thomas Jefferson vs. Joplin High) Self Fulfilling Prophecy- Labeling also, influences our own perception of ourselves and often leads people to embrace their labels and try to reinforce them.

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Labeling Theory Writing Assignment Today you will be free writing. I’d like somewhere around 300 words explaining the following: What is labeling theory? What labels have been used to define you? How have you tried to embrace or reject these labels? How have they influenced your selfperception?