Sociological Theories - Labelling Theory

Question 1

What type of theory is labelling theory

Answer 1

Micro (closely linked to the social action approach)

Question 2

What is self-fulfilling prophecy

Answer 2

The end result of labelling - prediction that comes true

Question 3

What did Howard Becker think

Answer 3

He argues that labels often involve a master status - e.g. ‘criminal’ overrides ‘father’

Question 4

What did goffman think

Answer 4

Studied inmates at an American mental hospital and found those who had been labelled manages to resist the definitions of the powerful

Question 5

What are the criticisms of labelling theory

Answer 5

• theorists tend to be very vague about who is responsible for defining acceptable norms of behaviour
• seen as deterministic - other influences on life chances
• fails to explain origin of power & neglect potential sources of inequality