Labelling Theory A2

Question 0

How does Becker define a deviant?

Answer 0

The deviant is whom the label is successfully applied to.

Question 1

What do Labelling Theorists say about deviance?

Answer 1

Labelling theorists state that it is not the nature of the act that makes it deviant, but the nature of society’s reaction that makes it so.

Question 2

Definition of deviant behaviour according to Becker?

Answer 2

According to Becker, deviant behaviour is simply the behaviour that people label.

Question 3

The term Becker uses for the people who lead ‘moral crusades’ to change the law?

Answer 3

This term Becker uses for people who lead ‘moral crusades’ is ‘Moral entrepreneurs’.

Question 4

Two Reasons why moral entrepreneurs campaign for changes in the law [their belief, Becker’s observation…]

Answer 4

Moral entrepreneurs campaign for changes in the law because…

1) they believe that it will benefit those to whom the law is applied.
2) Becker States that it is to increase their power and influence.

Question 5

The two effects of a new law (by moral entrepreneurs) on society?

Answer 5

1) creates a new group of outsiders (those who break the new rule)
2) creates and expands social control agency like the police to enforce this rule and impose labels on offenders.

Question 6

Example of social control agencies campaigning changes in the law to increase their own power

Answer 6

The US bureau of Narcotics campaigned for outlawing marijuanna because of its negative effects on young people. Becker saw it as a way in which the Bureau can extend its influence.

Question 7

Implicit finding of labelling theorists about new laws?

Answer 7

Not the harmfulness of a particular behaviour that leads to new laws. Rather, it is the efforts of powerful individuals and groups.

Question 8

According to Labelling Theorists, the grounds in which an individual is arrested, charged and convicted depends on 3 factors. What are these factors?

Answer 8

1) Interactions
2) Appearance, background
3) Situation and circumstance.

Question 9

detailed version of the 3 factors that determine an individual’s charges

Answer 9

1) Interactions with agencies of social control [police and courts)
2) Appearance and Background - personal bibliography
3) Situation and circumstances of the offence

Question 10

What did the police base their decision on, to arrest a youth

Answer 10

Police based their decision on physical cues such as manner and dress, gender, class, ethnicity.