Interactionism and Labelling Theory

Question 1

A theory that says in order to understand behaviour in society, you need to take a ‘bottom up’ approach. It is a perspective that sees society as the product of human interactions and the meanings that individuals place on those interactions.

Answer 1

Interactionism

Question 2

‘Normal’ and ‘deviant’ behaviour are relative (changeable) concepts.

Answer 2

Relativity of Deviance

Question 3

Social construction of deviance - Argues that deviance is a social construct, an act only becomes criminal/deviant when others label it as such.

Answer 3

Becker

Question 4

Negotiation of justice - Groups with power have the ability to avoid and negotiate their way out of a negative label.

Answer 4

Cicourel

Question 5

Primary and secondary deviance.

Answer 5

Lemert

Question 6

Insignificant acts that have not been publically labelled.

Answer 6

Primary Deviance

Question 7

As a result of being publically labelled as a criminal, an individual might find themselves stigmatised and excluded from normal society. The criminal label can therefore become a ‘master status’.

Answer 7

Secondary Deviance

Question 8

A status that has special importance for social identity, often shaping a person’s entire life.

Answer 8

Master Status

Question 9

A belief that leads to its own fulfillment.

Answer 9

Self-fulfilling Prophecy

Question 10

Attempts to control deviance leads to an increase in the level of deviance.

Answer 10

Deviance Amplification

Question 11

Continuing to be labeled as deviant even after the initial (primary) deviance may have ceased.

Answer 11

Deviant Career