Labeling Theory and Criminal Behavior

by Joan Swart in Psychology, July 25, 2010

The labeling theory of criminal behavior postulates that deviant and criminal behavior is a direct result of the negative labeling or stereotyping of minorities.

Social theories in general endeavor to rationalize the development of criminal behavior within dynamic social environments. Labeling theory, or social reaction theory, as initially formulated by Becker and postulated that deviant and criminal behavior is a direct result of the negative labeling or stereotyping of minorities. According to Bertonmen (2010), criminal behavior is the “manifestation of the mistrust of power” (p. 2) and is therefore a product of a conflict between a group and the community. Proponents of the labeling theory stated that an individual’s identity is shaped over time by the reactions of those around him or her to incidents of behavior and thereby labels are created. The perception and internalization of these labels, or stigmas in the negative sense, might create new reactions, which might further be judged as unacceptable or delinquent behavior. Although negative labeling might not directly produce criminal behavior, it would probably result in negative outcomes, such as mental disorders, and negative social interaction (Link, Cullen, Struening, Shrout, & Dohrenwend, 1989). Individuals might feel devalued and discriminated against, and therefore threatened in their interactions with others, which might further influence job and school performance, effectiveness of treatment and other interventions, and the utilization of social support networks. Individuals could develop feelings of fear of further rejection, and develop coping responses to deal with the insecurity.

The labeling and reacting to offenders as criminals has an even further and deepening effect on the individual and collective behavior, and O’Connor (2006) expressed his concern that the criminal justice system is often resulting in more harm than necessary by “casting the net of social control too wide” (para. 1). In fact “being criminal becomes a person’s master status” in society, and is the way they are foremost identified in public. This might have a profound impact on the individual’s future choices, interactions, and behavior, as he or she abandons attempts at conformity. According to Bertonmen (2010), policy changes might mitigate the effect that labeling has on the development of criminal behavior and suggested juvenile diversion, sealing of juvenile records, decriminalization and deinstitutionalization as measure to minimize negative and harmful effects on society. Juvenile diversion is a model typically applied to first-time juvenile offenders and offers an alternative to the court process by referral and voluntary participation in appropriate counseling, education, and community service projects. In conclusion, it would be beneficial to decriminalize less serious and first-time offenders as much as possible by offering alternative interventions and corrective programs, as well as identifying at risk individuals as soon as possible and providing structural support.