The Labeling Theory Of Deviance In Society

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In our society, there are several unspoken rules in regards to social norms. It is thought that “no human group can exist without norms: norms make social life possible by making behavior predictable (Henslin, 2012, pg. 159). Going against such behaviors is known as deviance. Deviance is defined as any violation of social norms, or rules/expectations. “Deviance undermines predictability, the foundation of social life” (Henslin, 2012, pg. 159). My assignment was to design and carry out an experiment in which I demonstrated deviance and elicited responses from others. Since its premier in 2012, I have taken interest in a particular television show called ‘Impractical Jokers. ' The television show follows three real-life best friends, who love challenging each other to the most outrageous dares and stunts ever caught on hidden camera. These friends frequently find themselves pushing each other to break social norms. This television show is where I acquired the …show more content…

This theory can be defined as the view that labels people are given affect their own and others’ perceptions of them, thus channeling their behavior into either deviance or conformity. The label theory focuses on: “the significance of reputations [and] how reputations or labels help set us on paths that propel us into deviance or divert us away from it” (Henslin, 2012, pg. 164). Before beginning the experiment, I was dreading the reactions of and the judgments from the people in the grocery store; I wanted to conform to society. After finishing the experiment, I felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders, no more dread. I knew that people had already made their judgments about me and at that point, I was okay with it. Now, I believe that I could go and carry out the exact experiment, a second time, and not feel the sense of dread I felt the first time. I believe this can be attributed to the label

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