NCJ Number
87362
Date Published
1982
Length
258 pages
Annotation
The stigma theory of crime and deviation regards the labeling and tagging processes as constructive factors identifying an individual as criminal in the eyes of others and to himself.
Abstract
The discussion deals with the role of stigma within the various mechanisms of normative control. An extended descriptive definition of the function of stigma as a means of social control paves the way for the study of stigma as a component of crime and deviation. The text illustrates the case of psychopathy and deals with the predisposing factors raising the probability of individuals and groups being branded by stigma. Other chapters examine the paradigm resulting from the relationship between value deviation, deviant behavior, and social stigma; the dynamic process of stigmatization; and the formal and informal effects of stigma on the future behavior of the stigmatized. One chapter presents an empirical study of Israeli prostitutes from North African authoritarian families, while another relates stigma to criminal and deviant subculture formation. In addition, the text presents a case study of Jean Genet, the French poet, who epitomizes the role of stigma in the making of a criminal, a pervert, and an outcast. The final chapter reviews the current state of the labeling theory within the contemporary framework of criminology and sociology. Figures, chapter notes, an index, and over 250 references are provided.