Secondary Deviance

Definition

Secondary deviance refers to a situation where an individual begins to identify themselves and act in ways that align with the deviant label they have been given by society or others. Unlike primary deviance, which is a one-time or occasional violation of social norms, secondary deviance involves actively embracing or internalizing the deviant identity over time. This process often occurs when individuals are repeatedly labeled as "criminal," "troublemaker," or similar, leading them to see themselves through that lens and act accordingly.

Example

A person gets caught shoplifting for the first time (primary deviance). She initially sees it as a mistake but ends up having to pay fines and now has a criminal record. She is labeled by her peers as a "thief." Over time, feeling alienated and stigmatized, she starts spending more time with others who have been labeled similarly. Eventually, she begins to see herself as someone who doesn’t fit into mainstream society and starts engaging in more deviant behaviors (secondary deviance).

Why it Matters

Secondary deviance matters because it highlights the impact of societal labels and stigma on individual behavior. When people are repeatedly labeled as deviants, they may start to internalize these labels, which can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy where they act in ways that confirm the label. This cycle can trap individuals in deviant behavior, making it harder for them to reintegrate into society or seek positive change. Understanding secondary deviance is crucial for developing strategies to support individuals who have been labeled negatively, helping them break free from the constraints of their labels and rebuild a positive identity.