Social class & crime

Question 1

What is Howard Becker’s Labelling Theory?

Answer 1

Labelling theory assumes that we are determined by our labels, meaning that when we are labelled as deviant, we will become deviant in indirect ways. However, there are many people who resist labels and are motivated to disprove their label.

Question 2

Which other theories are related to social class?

Answer 2

Albert Cohen - Status Fustration
Robert Merton: Strain Theory
Lea & Young: Left Realism - Relative Deprivation, Marginalisation, Subcultures
Rational Choice Theory
Charles Murray - Underclass and inadequate socialisation
David Gordon - Marxist theory ‘dog eat dog’ societies