TOPIC 2: What is Labeling Theory?

Labeling theory is a sociological theory, mainly in criminology, that suggests that individuals come to identify and behave in ways that reflect how others label them. This theory stems from a school of thought referred to as “symbolic interactionism” based on ideas from George Herbert Mead, John Dewey, W.I. Thomas, Charles Horton Cooley, and Herbert Blumer, among others.

Labeling Theory in Function (Criminology):

Primary Deviance: An individual commits a deviant act.

Public Labeling: The act is publicly labeled as deviant, and the individual is stigmatized.

Internalization of the Label: The individual internalizes the label and begins to see themselves as deviant.

Secondary Deviance: The individual engages in further deviant behavior, confirming the label.

TOPIC 2.1: Why Does Labeling Matter?

Societal Implications

Opportunities: Labels can limit and open opportunities for [insert your topic of choice].

Discrimination: labels create an “other” which depending on the narrative, can be harmful or helpful for the goal of a society.

Personal Implications

Self-Concept: individuals may internalize labels, leading to self-destructive behavior; labels can shape an individual's sense of self and their future aspirations.

Social Relationships: labeled individuals may face social exclusion.

Mental Health: negative labels can erode self-esteem and confidence while positive ones can bolster self-esteem and confidence.

CONCLUSION:

Episode Reflection…Thanks for listening. We hope you’ll tune in to the next episode of The Irreverent where… [INSERT HOST/TOPIC]. Please check out our website and send your thoughts, opinions, and concerns; we want to incorporate listener discussions into our future episodes. That’s all that’s planned for this episode. Go out and understand the world and everything within it by having uncomfortable conversations. That’s what our identity as a podcast is, and hopefully, anyone listening can find a place in that sentiment.

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