Labeling theory: secondary deviance
After being arrested and labeled a delinquent, a teen adopts that identity and commits more serious offenses. Labeling theory calls this:
Answer A: explanation for every choice
A
Correct. Secondary deviance follows from accepting a deviant label as part of one's identity.
B
Primary deviance is the initial act, before any label is internalized.
C
Differential association explains deviance as learned from close associates.
D
Anomie is normlessness when social regulation breaks down.
TakeawayPrimary deviance: the act. Secondary deviance: the label becomes identity.
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Reviewed 2026-11-05 by a medical student. Spot an error? Report it with question ID ps134.