Perceptions of Stigma following Public Intervention for Delinquent Behavior

The Declining Significance of Delinquent Labels in Disadvantaged Urban Communities1

“…Though research generally supports the deviance amplification prediction of labeling theory (Ageton and Elliott, 1974; Bernburg et al , 2006; Farrington, 1977; Gold and Williams, 1970; Klein, 1986), few studies substantiate the theorized preconditions or mediators of labeling effects. For example, Foster et al . (1972) find that a large majority of boys reported no change in their relationships with family, friends, or teachers following contact with police or the juvenile court.…”

Effects of Labeling "The Drug Abuser" An Inquiry

“…If the labeling hypothesis is correct, official intervention may further define the youth as delinquent in the eyes of neighbors, family members, and peers, thus making it more difficult for him to resume conventional activities. (Wheeler and Cottrell, 1966:23) However, Foster (1971) and Foster, Dinitz, and Reckless (1972) report that their study of apprehended boys found very few who perceived any difficulties in their interpersonal relationships with family or friends as the result of their official labeling. They therefore concluded that the social liability incurred by apprehension is overestimated by the labeling perspective (Foster, Dinitz, and Reckless, 1972:208).…”