Theory: The Labeling Theory
The labeling theory is a type of interactionist theories, which suggests that criminal
behavior is learned from interactions with others. In specific, the labeling theory believes that
“
someone only becomes deviant once that label is applied to them. This can occur through
negative societal reactions that ultimately result in a tarnished and damaged self-image and
negative social expectations” (Sobolewski, n.d.). Unfortunately, when we as individuals interact
with others, we experience both implicit and explicit bias. This remains true for law enforcement
officers. When law enforcement officers interact with the community or when they make an
arrest, they may intentionally and unintentionally label the individuals they are interacting with.
“The police culture’s use of tagging influences how other officers behave when they have
future contact with this labeled person. Labeling a person is the equivalent of a police “No Fly
List” because police culture dictates that the labeled individual should be treated differently
because they have been identified as trouble. Labeling leads to stereotyping or profiling which
can cause poor decision making by officers” (Kranick, 2014). A program in Houston, Texas was
created to help reduce the social distance between the community and law enforcement. Teen and
Police Service Academy (TAPS) was founded by Chief Brian Lumpkin alongside Criminologist.
Dr. Everette Penn. “
At the time, the Houston Police Department was granted funds to create a
program
that would enhance and build a more trusting relationship between teens and police in
Houston” (Teen and Police Service Academy, n.d.). TAPS has allowed law enforcement and
youth to get to know each other and exchange ideas while providing the youth life-building
skills, drug and alcohol prevention, conflict resolution, safe driving, service learning, and
stresses the importance of mental health.
