Question

Please define each of the following key terms in your own words as well as give a brief example of each:

a) Labeling Theory

b) Theory of Differential Association

c) Formal and informal social controls

Answer 1

a) Labeling Theory-

Labeling theory states that people come to identify and behave in ways that reflect how others label them. This theory is most commonly associated with the sociology of crime since labeling someone unlawfully deviant can lead to poor conduct. Describing someone as a criminal. Labeling theory provides a distinctively sociological approach that focuses on the role of social labeling in the development of crime and deviance. These problems in turn can increase the likelihood of deviant and criminal behavior becoming stable and chronic.

For example is when a person is responsible for the death of another. When are they labeled as a 'murderer' or a 'killer?' The reaction to death sometimes depends on the circumstances. The person responsible will be viewed differently depending on the reason, whether it's murder, war, self-defense, or an accident.

b)Theory of Differential Association-

This is a theory developed by Edwin Sutherland proposing that through interaction with others, individuals learn the values, attitudes, techniques, and motives for criminal behavior.The theory is based upon the idea that criminals commit crimes based upon their association with other people.This theory focuses on how individuals learn to become criminals, but it does not concern itself with why they become criminals.

For example. If a hungry boy comes across a restaurant and finds the owner absent, he steals a roti (loaf of bread). In this case, the boy steals not because the restaurant owner was absent and he himself was hungry but because he had learnt earlier that one could satisfy ones hunger by stealing things. Thus, it is not the situation which motivates a person to commit a theft; it is his learnt attitudes and beliefs.

c) Formal and informal social controls-

Formal social control is the use of the law and ultimately force to control our behaviour. Formal social control is implemented by authorized agents including police officers, employers, military officers, and others.For example, certain laws like prohibition of murder can be directed at all members of a society.

The informal means of social control grow themselves in society. No special agency is required to create them. It is exercised through customs, traditions, folkways, mores, religion, ridicule etc. Informal control prevails over all the aspects of man’s life. The Brahmins do not lake meat. They lake meals only after bath. The Jains do not take curd. They take their dinner before sunset. The Hindu women do not smoke. One can marry only in one’s caste.