Question

Identify and describe sources of labels. Next, discuss how labels from the juvenile justice system can be devastating on our youth.

Answer 1

Labeling theory of criminology states that individuals assume the labels prescribed upon them by society. It states that crime is more of a reaction to labels attached to individuals in society. common sources of labels include parents, peer groups and the criminal justice system.

Labels from the criminal justice system especially juvenile justice can be devastating due to the fact that it may encourage members of the general public to stereotype the individual who in this case may react to the stereotyping by assuming the labels.

Explanation:

A label is defined as attaching phrases and names to individuals basing their physical or moral characteristics. In some cases, labels do not portray correct or accurate information about someone. Labeling is a key concept in criminology and criminal justice. This can be proved by the existence of the labeling theory in criminology. Labeling theory of criminology states that individuals assume the labels prescribed upon them by society. It states that crime is more of a reaction to labels attached to individuals in society (Agnew & Brezina, 2013).

In many cases, the first time offenders found to be guilty of misdemeanors are usually labeled as criminals in the society. Due to the stigma associated with the labels, individuals tend to assume these labels fully and therefore become hardened criminals and deviants. The same applies to juveniles.

One of the sources of common sources is parents. Most parents label their children as deviants in the course of committing one simple mistake. This label encourages offenders to assume the role of the label and act in relation to the label. This is one of the motivational factors that encourage juvenile delinquency.

Another source of labels within society is the peer group. Peer groups both at home and at school may label one as deviant or a criminal based on one simple incident. The juvenile may grow up and get attached to the label which may motivate him or her to behave according to the label.

Another source of label within the society is the criminal justice system. The criminal justice system labels individuals as deviants by keeping their records on criminal counts arrests and even prosecutions. This information in some cases is stored in a database that may be accessed by third parties, including potential employers, institutions of higher learning and members of the public. This information encourages consumers to label the subject as a criminal or a deviant person. After some time, the person may react by assuming the label attached to them.

Labels from the criminal justice system especially juvenile justice can be devastating due to the fact that it may encourage members of the general public to stereotype the individual who in this case may react to the stereotyping by assuming the labels. The labels may also be denying the rehabilitated juvenile form accessing opportunities since potential individuals and institutions may access the information and make decisions to deny the offender the opportunity basing on the information. This may be devastating to the youth.