Labeling and Symbolic Interaction Theories of Crime

Abstract

Abstract The term “symbolic interaction” was coined in 1936 by Herbert Blumer to represent the unique qualities of interactions that take place between individuals. Social reality is an interpretation according to each individual based on the process of continuing interactions, thus allowing for multiple realities. This school of thought, originally developed by George Herbert Mead, provides a foundation for labeling theory in criminology. The labeling process of “making the criminal” began to be fully explored in the 1950s and 1960s, with work by Edwin Lemert, Howard Becker, Edwin Schur, and others. While social scientists tended to distance themselves from labeling theory in the early 1970s, the labeling concept was not abandoned altogether. Labeling is considered as one part of a larger social process, exemplified in John Braithwaite's reintegrative shaming theory. Ross Matsueda has used a reflective appraisal approach to explain how labeling can influence subsequent deviance. One of the most contemporary developments in labeling theory can be found in Robert Sampson and John Laub's theory of age‐graded informal social control. Results from the most current research on labeling theory appear to be trending toward support for the theory.