Who Created Social Reaction Theory?

//

Martha Robinson

The Social Reaction Theory, also known as the labeling theory, is a sociological perspective that examines how society’s reaction to an individual’s behavior can influence their future actions and self-identity. This theory suggests that individuals are not inherently deviant but become labeled as such through social interactions.

Origins of the Social Reaction Theory

The Social Reaction Theory was first introduced by sociologists Howard Becker and Edwin Lemert in the mid-20th century. Howard Becker’s book “Outsiders: Studies in the Sociology of Deviance,” published in 1963, is considered a seminal work in this field.

Howard Becker:

Howard Becker was an American sociologist who played a significant role in shaping the Social Reaction Theory. He argued that deviance is not a characteristic of an individual or their behavior but rather a result of societal reactions to certain behaviors. Becker emphasized that societal reactions, such as labeling someone as deviant, can lead to the creation and perpetuation of deviant identities.

Edwin Lemert:

Edwin Lemert expanded upon Becker’s ideas by introducing the concept of primary and secondary deviance. Primary deviance refers to acts that may be considered deviant but have minimal consequences for an individual’s self-identity. On the other hand, secondary deviance occurs when an individual internalizes society’s negative labels and begins to identify with their deviant status.

The Key Concepts

Social Interaction:

The Social Reaction Theory emphasizes the importance of social interaction in determining whether certain behaviors are labeled as deviant or not. It suggests that individuals learn what is considered acceptable or unacceptable through their interactions with others.

Labeling Process:

This theory asserts that the labeling process plays a crucial role in the formation of deviant identities. When an individual is labeled as deviant, it can lead to stigmatization and exclusion from mainstream society, which may further reinforce their deviant behavior.

Self-Fulfilling Prophecy:

The Social Reaction Theory also highlights the self-fulfilling prophecy effect. This phenomenon occurs when individuals internalize the labels assigned to them and begin to act according to those expectations. For example, if someone is labeled as a “troublemaker,” they may start behaving in ways that fulfill that expectation.

Applications of the Social Reaction Theory

The Social Reaction Theory has been widely applied in criminology and sociology to explain various aspects of deviant behavior and its consequences. It has helped researchers understand how societal reactions can contribute to the perpetuation of criminal or deviant identities.

Criminal Justice System:

This theory has influenced discussions surrounding the criminal justice system’s role in labeling individuals as criminals and the subsequent impact on their reintegration into society after serving their sentences.

Stigma and Discrimination:

The Social Reaction Theory also sheds light on how stigmatization and discrimination can arise from societal reactions to certain behaviors or characteristics. It helps explain how individuals may internalize these labels and experience negative consequences in various domains of life, such as employment opportunities or social relationships.

In Conclusion

The Social Reaction Theory, developed by Howard Becker and expanded upon by Edwin Lemert, provides valuable insights into how societal reactions influence an individual’s self-identity and future actions. By understanding this theory, we can gain a deeper understanding of deviant behavior and work towards creating more inclusive societies that do not solely rely on labeling individuals based on their actions.

8 Related Question Answers Found

Who Created Social Action Theory?

Social action theory is a widely recognized and influential framework that aims to explain the behavior of individuals and groups in society. The theory focuses on how people’s actions are influenced by their social environment and the meanings they assign to different situations. The development of social action theory is often attributed to Max Weber, a German sociologist who lived from 1864 to 1920.

Who Created the Social Impact Theory?

The Social Impact Theory is a popular theory in social psychology that explains how individuals’ behaviors, beliefs, and attitudes are influenced by the presence and actions of others. The theory suggests that the strength of the impact depends on three factors: the number of people present, their immediacy, and their strength. But who created this influential theory?

Who Created the Social Marketing Theory?

Social Marketing Theory is a concept that explains how marketing techniques can be used to change behaviors that benefit society. The theory was first introduced by marketing researcher Philip Kotler and Gerald Zaltman in the early 1970s. Philip Kotler Philip Kotler is widely recognized as the father of modern marketing.

Who Made the Social Process Theory?

The Social Process Theory is a criminological theory that focuses on how individuals become criminals. It suggests that criminal behavior is learned through social interactions and experiences, and is not necessarily a result of individual characteristics or biology. The theory was first introduced by sociologist Edwin Sutherland in the early 20th century.

Who Created the Social Judgment Theory?

The Social Judgment Theory is a communication theory that was first developed by Muzafer Sherif and his colleagues in the 1950s. Sherif was a Turkish-American social psychologist who made significant contributions to the field of social psychology. He is widely known for his research on group dynamics, intergroup conflict, and social influence.

Who Created Social Responsibility Theory?

Social Responsibility Theory is a concept that has been around for decades. It suggests that businesses have an obligation to act in the best interests of society as a whole, beyond their own financial interests. The idea behind this theory is that companies should not only focus on making profits but also on contributing positively to society.

Who Created Social Movement Theory?

Social movement theory is a way of understanding how social movements develop, grow, and succeed. It is a multidisciplinary field that draws on sociology, political science, psychology, and other disciplines. However, the question remains – who created social movement theory?

Who Created Social Class Theory?

Social class theory is a concept that has been widely used in social sciences for many years. It is a way of understanding and analyzing the different levels of social stratification that exist within societies. The idea behind this theory is that individuals are grouped into different social classes based on their income, education, occupation, and other factors that contribute to their social standing.

Social Theory - Theory of Evolution - Game Theory - Music Theory - Scientific Theory - Atomic Theory - Cell Theory - Life Philosophy - Philosophy of Science - Metaphysics - Epistemology - Phenomenology - Existentialism - Social Psychology - Psychology Degree - Clinical Psychology - Cognitive Psychology

© 2023 StrangeHerring