Labeling Theory Social Psychology Are Labels Real

Labeling Theory in Social Psychology: Are Labels Real? Due to varying viewpoints and controversy, it is reasonable to question the authenticity of labels and the role they play on socialization. As a result, there has been a plethora of evidence-based research in attempt to explain its origins predating since the 1930s but becoming most prominent in the 1960s as the labeling theory. The great majority of this research links labeling with abnormal or irregular behavior, often coined as ‘deviant’ (Thomson, 2012; Ray Dollar, 2014). Once this label is attached to an individual, there are ramifications whether positive or negative (Thomson, 2012). For example, an individual labeled ‘felon or criminal’ may forever live a life struggling to find gainful employment, while an individual labeled ‘genius’ may forever receive respect and honor for their opinion and viewpoint. Unfortunately, negative labels, which are more commonly considered, tend to be much more destructive rather than effecting one’s life in a positive manner. In addition, public labeling specifically, such as in a court room setting, tends to influence an individual in such a significant manner that the labeled individual is forced into embracing the role of the label (Thomson, 2012). In this way, the person labeled is treated as if their behavior is shameful and thereby stigmatized by the attached label (Thomson, 2012). This has a tendency to not only birth stigma and shame, but prejudices as well. Garfield’sShow MoreRelatedColumbine High School Massacre : The Facts, Theories, Issues, And Solutions Essay1601 Words   |  7 PagesMassacre: The Facts, Theories, Issues, and Solutions On April 20, 1999, one of the largest school shootings in American history took place at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado. 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