Secondary Deviance

Secondary deviance occurs when an individual’s behavior changes after being labeled as deviant or criminal. Once someone is associated with deviance—such as being labeled a criminal—they may internalize this label and continue or escalate their deviant actions, often due to societal reactions, stigmatization, or reduced opportunities. This process can create a cycle where the individual’s identity shifts toward that of a deviant, reinforcing their behavior. In essence, secondary deviance is a response to societal responses, where the label influences future behavior and social interactions.