Labeling Theory | MCAT Sociology Prep

In this lesson, we're going to go over labeling theory as it applies to deviance. Labeling theory is a theory that explains how labeling an individual may result in that individual continuing to engage in behaviors that match the label. It's essentially a self-fulfilling prophecy. By labeling an individual, the individual ends up engaging in behaviors that match the label.
Interested in even more MCAT Prep? Discover our MCAT Prep App (mcat-prep.meds...) and our FREE Half-Length MCAT Practice Exam (www.medschoolc.... We're here to help make your medical school goals a reality. To watch more MCAT video tutorials like this and have access to study scheduling, progress tracking, flashcards, and question bank, download MCAT Prep by MedSchoolCoach.
Download Here: mcat-prep.meds...
--
(00:09) What is labeling theory?
Labeling theory is not applied arbitrarily to all labels. Sociologists typically apply this theory to deviant roles that perform deviant behaviors.
(00:28) What is deviance?
The term “deviant” refers to individuals who tend to not follow societal norms. An example of a deviant could be juvenile delinquents. Juvenile delinquents often engage in deviant behaviors such as drinking alcohol, skipping school, breaking curfew, and other kinds of behaviors that do not fit societal norms for underage individuals.
(01:07) What is the primary stage of labeling theory?
Now, to get a better understanding of how this labeling theory works, let's talk about the two stages of labeling theory. Let’s first discuss primary deviance. Primary deviance is the initial performance of an act of deviance, such as shoplifting. Now, shoplifting is very common. Many people have shoplifted at some point in their lives. However, this action, when performed for the first time, typically does not result in an individual being labeled as a deviant. Otherwise, we would have a lot more deviants in society. Therefore, primary deviance is just the initial performance of an act of deviance in which individuals are not necessarily labeled as “deviant.”
(01:45) What is the secondary stage of labeling theory?
Secondary deviance is when an individual is caught performing a deviant act, causing them to be labeled as deviant and continue performing deviant behaviors. Now, at this point, we still haven’t defined why being labeled “deviant” results in that individual subsequently performing more deviant behaviors. So let's walk through an example. Let's say a teenager is caught shoplifting and, because of that, they spend some time in a juvenile detention center and also now have a record of their shoplifting. After their release, it becomes clear that other families don't want their children to spend time with the teenager. The teenager may also have a tough time finding a job. So, overall, this teenager is essentially being shunned by society.
(02:44) Summary: How does society play a role in labeling theory?
Because of this shunning, the teenager continues to perform deviant behaviors, therefore, society plays a role in labeling theory. of being labeled as a deviant, causing them to perform more deviant behaviors. This is labeling theory.

[@ryanschumann2990]

Great video! Thanks for the content!

[@timothymilsom1392]

Much appreciated!