labeling theory

the sociological hypothesis that describing an individual in terms of particular behavioral characteristics may have a significant effect on his or her behavior, as a form of self-fulfilling prophecy. For example, describing an individual as deviant and then treating him or her as such may result in mental disorder or delinquency. Also called societal-reaction theory. See also primary deviance.

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Psychology term of the day

November 22nd 2024

corpus planning

see language planning.