Okay everybody let’s talk about these labels. We’ve all been labeled at least once in our lives, we label ourselves, and others. If they don’t know who we are, then we’re bound to fall into the category of being labeled or following the label “assigned” to us. Although it’s only human to label each other, so let’s look at the definition. Labeling Theory in Sociology, according to the article “An Overview of Labeling Theory Sociology” by Ashley Crossman, the definition of labeling theory “people come to identify and behave in ways that reflect how others label them.”
Labeling theory is actually used in criminal law as a tool to determine deviant behavior. This theory also not surprisingly applies to concepts of stereotypes. Labeling and stereotypes given by society are typically negative, which is an understatement to say it’s ironic. Being afraid of self-expression through behavior, fashion, social media, who we’re attracted to, or the way we look, afraid to be who we are, just because of labeling.
Together let’s break this all too normal trend and instead of putting each other down through labels. We need to encourage each other to embrace who you are, and grow into the best versions of ourselves possible. Break the cycle of feeling that we need to become who we’re told to be through these labels, and instead, become who we’re meant to be. Together we can create a stronger woman, a stronger man, a stronger group of people.
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