Abstract

ABREU, Cláudio. Structuralist Analysis of Labeling Theory. Diánoia [online]. 2019, vol.64, n.82, pp.31-59.  Epub May 12, 2020. ISSN 0185-2450.  https://doi.org/10.22201/iifs.18704913e.2019.82.1634.

Abstract: Labeling theory is the theory of how the self-identity and behavior of individuals may be determined or influenced by the terms used to describe or classify them. The theory has become important and has conquered its space as one of the most productive theories about deviance. In this study, based on a contemporary conception of scientific theory, that of the structuralist metatheory, I propose a reconstruction of Howard Becker/Edwin Lemert’s approach which makes explicit the deep structure of the theory.

Keywords : philosophy of science; sociology of deviation; Howard Becker; Edwin Lemert.