The Labelling Theory of Crime

Labelling Theory explores how and why certain people become labelled as deviant or a criminal. A deviant label (Such as Prostitute, Delinquent or Drug Addict) is like a sticky tag that can be attached to an individual or a group. 

Interactionalists prefer to study Individual actions rather than the powers of society as a whole. (Micro VS Marco)

Applying Label

When somebody commits a deviant act they have the option to either accept or reject their status as deviant. 

• If a person accepts the label given to them - the person internalizes the act and reproduces the behavior - The self-fulfilling…