Frequently Asked Questions about Secondary Deviance

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 119 views

Understanding Secondary Deviance: A Key Concept in Sociology

Secondary deviance is a crucial concept in sociology that helps us understand how individuals become labeled as deviant and how this labeling can lead to further deviant behavior. In this article, we will explore the definition of secondary deviance and how it differs from primary deviance.

What is Secondary Deviance?

Secondary deviance is a behavior that a person engages in that causes them to be labeled deviant. This concept was first introduced by sociologist Howard Becker in his 1963 book "Outsiders: Studies in the Sociology of Deviance." Becker argued that deviance is not just a behavior, but also a label that is applied to individuals by society. Secondary deviance occurs when an individual engages in behavior that is labeled as deviant, and this labeling can lead to further deviant behavior.

The Process of Secondary Deviance

The process of secondary deviance involves several stages. First, an individual engages in behavior that is labeled as deviant. This behavior may be a reaction to being labeled deviant, but it can also be a behavior that is not necessarily deviant in itself. For example, a person who is labeled as a "troublemaker" may engage in behavior that is seen as deviant, such as skipping school or engaging in vandalism.

The Labeling Process

The labeling process is a crucial aspect of secondary deviance. When an individual is labeled as deviant, they may begin to see themselves as deviant and may engage in behavior that reinforces this label. This can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy, where the individual becomes more and more deviant as a result of the label that has been applied to them.

The Role of Social Interaction

Social interaction plays a significant role in the development of secondary deviance. When an individual is labeled as deviant, they may be ostracized by their peers and may be seen as an outcast. This can lead to feelings of isolation and rejection, which can further reinforce the deviant behavior.

The Impact of Secondary Deviance

Secondary deviance can have a significant impact on an individual's life. It can lead to further deviant behavior, which can result in negative consequences such as arrest, imprisonment, or other forms of punishment. Secondary deviance can also lead to social isolation and rejection, which can have long-term effects on an individual's mental and emotional well-being.

Distinguishing Secondary Deviance from Primary Deviance

Primary deviance refers to behavior that is deviant in itself, without the influence of labeling. For example, a person who engages in vandalism is engaging in primary deviance. Secondary deviance, on the other hand, refers to behavior that is deviant as a result of labeling. For example, a person who is labeled as a "troublemaker" may engage in behavior that is seen as deviant, such as skipping school or engaging in vandalism.

Examples of Secondary Deviance

There are many examples of secondary deviance in everyday life. For example, a person who is labeled as a "dropout" may engage in behavior that is seen as deviant, such as skipping school or engaging in substance abuse. A person who is labeled as a "thief" may engage in behavior that is seen as deviant, such as shoplifting or burglary.

Conclusion

Secondary deviance is a complex and multifaceted concept that helps us understand how individuals become labeled as deviant and how this labeling can lead to further deviant behavior. By understanding the process of secondary deviance, we can better appreciate the role of labeling in shaping behavior and the impact of this labeling on individuals and society.

Key Takeaways

Secondary deviance refers to behavior that a person engages in that causes them to be labeled deviant.
The labeling process is a crucial aspect of secondary deviance.
Social interaction plays a significant role in the development of secondary deviance.
Secondary deviance can have a significant impact on an individual's life.
Distinguishing secondary deviance from primary deviance is essential in understanding the concept of deviance.

References

Becker, H. S. (1963). Outsiders: Studies in the Sociology of Deviance. New York: Free Press.
Goffman, E. (1963). Stigma: Notes on the Management of Spoiled Identity. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall.
Matza, D. (1969). Becoming Deviant. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall.
Frequently Asked Questions about Secondary Deviance

Secondary deviance is a complex and multifaceted concept that can be difficult to understand. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about secondary deviance.

Q: What is the difference between primary and secondary deviance?

A: Primary deviance refers to behavior that is deviant in itself, without the influence of labeling. Secondary deviance, on the other hand, refers to behavior that is deviant as a result of labeling. For example, a person who engages in vandalism is engaging in primary deviance. A person who is labeled as a "troublemaker" may engage in behavior that is seen as deviant, such as skipping school or engaging in vandalism, which is an example of secondary deviance.

Q: How does labeling contribute to secondary deviance?

A: Labeling plays a significant role in the development of secondary deviance. When an individual is labeled as deviant, they may begin to see themselves as deviant and may engage in behavior that reinforces this label. This can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy, where the individual becomes more and more deviant as a result of the label that has been applied to them.

Q: What are some examples of secondary deviance?

A: There are many examples of secondary deviance in everyday life. For example, a person who is labeled as a "dropout" may engage in behavior that is seen as deviant, such as skipping school or engaging in substance abuse. A person who is labeled as a "thief" may engage in behavior that is seen as deviant, such as shoplifting or burglary.

Q: Can secondary deviance be reversed?

A: Yes, secondary deviance can be reversed. If an individual is able to change their behavior and overcome the label that has been applied to them, they may be able to break the cycle of deviance. This can be achieved through various means, such as therapy, education, or social support.

Q: What are some factors that contribute to secondary deviance?

A: There are several factors that contribute to secondary deviance, including:

Social interaction: Social interaction plays a significant role in the development of secondary deviance. When an individual is labeled as deviant, they may be ostracized by their peers and may be seen as an outcast.
Labeling: Labeling is a crucial aspect of secondary deviance. When an individual is labeled as deviant, they may begin to see themselves as deviant and may engage in behavior that reinforces this label.
Social environment: The social environment can also contribute to secondary deviance. For example, if an individual grows up in a neighborhood where deviance is common, they may be more likely to engage in deviant behavior.

Q: How can we prevent secondary deviance?

A: There are several ways to prevent secondary deviance, including:

Providing education and support: Providing education and support to individuals who are at risk of deviance can help them to make better choices and avoid deviant behavior.
Encouraging positive social interaction: Encouraging positive social interaction can help to reduce the likelihood of secondary deviance.
Addressing labeling: Addressing labeling and challenging negative stereotypes can help to reduce the likelihood of secondary deviance.

Q: What are some consequences of secondary deviance?

A: The consequences of secondary deviance can be severe and long-lasting. Some consequences include:

Arrest and imprisonment: Engaging in deviant behavior can lead to arrest and imprisonment.
Social isolation: Deviant behavior can lead to social isolation and rejection.
Mental health problems: Deviant behavior can lead to mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety.

Conclusion

Secondary deviance is a complex and multifaceted concept that can have severe and long-lasting consequences. By understanding the factors that contribute to secondary deviance and the consequences of deviant behavior, we can work to prevent and address this issue.