NCJ Number
251870
Journal
Social Science Quarterly Volume: 98 Issue: 1 Dated: 2017 Pages: 73-88
Date Published
2017
Length
16 pages
Annotation
The objective of this study was to test labeling theory as an explanation of juvenile delinquency, using a study methodology that addresses weaknesses in previous research that has tested this hypothesis.
Abstract
According to labeling theory, an official deviance label promotes the development of deviant self‐ meanings. Despite the centrality of this hypothesis to the theory, most tests of the hypothesis on juveniles are decades old, fail to control for deviant behavior, and focus only on self‐evaluation, neglecting two of the three dimensions of self‐meaning: self‐potency and self‐activity. The current study tested the hypothesis by examining the relationship between a delinquency adjudication and all three dimensions of self‐ meaning, while controlling for recent deviant behavior. Study data came from two samples of college students and one sample of youths in an after‐ care program for youths who had been adjudicated delinquent. As expected, a delinquency adjudication was linked with lower self‐ evaluation and higher self‐ potency; however, contrary to expectations, it was associated with higher feelings of activity. These findings are consistent with the labeling theory proposition that an official deviance label promotes the development of deviant self‐ meanings. This article discusses the theoretical and policy implications of these findings and outlines avenues for future research. (Publisher abstract modified)