10 Marker example: Labelling Theory

Applying material from Item A, analyse two effects of the labelling process on individuals and groups (10 marks)

According to Item A, 'being labelled can have important effects on individuals to whom the label is attached.' Labelling theorists claim that labelling individuals as criminals actually encourages them to be criminal.For example, Lemert distinguishes between primary deviance and secondary deviance which is the result of societal reaction to a label of deviance. Once an individual is labelled, it often becomes what Lemert calls their 'master status.' Their self concept is reduced and they accept their new label which leads to a self-fulfilling prophecy as they are likely to love up to their label. This is supported by Jock…