According To Sociologist Howard Becker, Crime And Deviance Are Defined By The __________.

Understanding the Role of Social Definitions in Crime and Deviance

According To Sociologist Howard Becker, Crime And Deviance Are Defined By The . This statement underscores a fundamental concept in sociology: that society itself plays a crucial role in determining what behaviors are considered criminal or deviant. Becker's perspective challenges the traditional view that crime and deviance are inherent qualities of certain actions or individuals. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of social context, norms, and perceptions in shaping societal judgments. This article explores Becker’s ideas in detail, examining how definitions of crime and deviance are constructed and the implications for understanding social order and change.

Howard Becker and the Labeling Theory

Who Was Howard Becker?

Howard Becker was a prominent American sociologist renowned for his contributions to the sociology of deviance. His work in the 1960s, particularly the development of the Labeling Theory, revolutionized how sociologists understand crime and deviance. Becker argued that deviance is not a quality inherent in certain acts but is instead a consequence of societal reaction.

The Core Idea of Labeling Theory

Labeling Theory posits that:

• Deviance is a social construct, created through societal reactions.
• The labels attached to individuals (e.g., "criminal," "deviant") influence their self-identity and behavior.
• Societal responses to certain behaviors reinforce deviance, leading to a self-fulfilling prophecy.

In essence, Becker emphasized that what society considers deviant varies across cultures and historical periods, highlighting the importance of social context in defining crime.

Society's Role in Defining Crime and Deviance

The Social Construction of Deviance

Deviance is not an objective concept but is constructed through social processes, including:

• Legislation and Law Enforcement: Laws define what is criminal, but these laws reflect societal values at specific times.
• Cultural Norms: What is acceptable varies across societies and influences perceptions of deviance.
• Media portrayal: Media often shape public perceptions by highlighting certain behaviors as problematic.

The Impact of Power and Social Inequality

Power dynamics significantly influence the labeling process:

• Dominant groups often define what is deviant, marginalizing subordinate groups.
• Social control mechanisms are used to maintain existing power structures.
• Examples include the criminalization of marginalized communities or behaviors associated with lower socioeconomic statuses.

This perspective underscores that definitions of crime and deviance often serve societal interests rather than objective standards.

Examples of Society Defining Crime and Deviance

Historical and Cultural Variability

What is considered deviant or criminal can change over time:

• Prohibition of alcohol in the early 20th century in the US labeled drinking as deviant.
• Homosexuality was once criminalized in many societies but is now accepted in many parts of the world.
• Drug laws vary widely, reflecting societal attitudes and political agendas.

Contemporary Issues

Current debates highlight society's role in defining deviance:

• Cybercrime and online behaviors are increasingly criminalized.
• Social media influences perceptions of acceptable conduct.
• Movements advocating for social justice challenge existing definitions of crimes like loitering or vagrancy.

The Implications of Becker’s Perspective

Understanding Crime as a Social Construct

Recognizing that crime and deviance are socially constructed leads to several implications:

• Policies and laws should be examined critically, considering who benefits from certain definitions.
• Rehabilitation vs. punishment: Emphasizes the importance of addressing societal attitudes rather than solely focusing on individual behavior.
• Social change: Challenging existing norms can lead to shifts in what behaviors are considered deviant.

Impacts on Criminal Justice and Society

Becker’s theory influences various aspects of the criminal justice system:

• Discretion in law enforcement can lead to bias.
• The criminal justice system may disproportionately target marginalized groups.
• Decriminalization efforts often stem from changing social perceptions.

Critiques and Limitations of the Labeling Theory

While Becker’s perspective has been influential, it is not without critiques:

• Overemphasis on social reaction: Some argue it underestimates the role of individual choice and inherent harm.


• Neglect of the original act: Critics claim it shifts focus away from the behavior itself.


• Potential for victim-blaming: Emphasizing societal labels might overlook victims of crimes.

Despite these critiques, the theory remains a vital tool for understanding the social dimensions of crime and deviance.

Conclusion: Society as the Creator of Crime and Deviance

Howard Becker’s assertion that crime and deviance are defined by society highlights the importance of social context, norms, and power relations in shaping perceptions of behavior. His labeling theory emphasizes that behaviors are only considered criminal or deviant because society reacts to them in specific ways. This understanding calls for a critical examination of laws, policies, and societal attitudes to foster a more just and inclusive approach to social control.

By recognizing that definitions of crime are not fixed but fluid and socially constructed, societies can work towards more equitable and reflective systems. Ultimately, Becker’s insights remind us that what is considered criminal or deviant is as much about societal perceptions and power as it is about the acts themselves.