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Edwin Lemert

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description Edwin Lemert Overview

Edwin M. Lemert was an American sociologist whose work on deviance became central to the development of labeling theory. In Social Pathology (1951), he distinguished primary deviance, an initial rule-breaking act, from secondary deviance, which develops when social reactions and imposed labels become incorporated into a person's identity and conduct. The distinction remains widely used in sociology, criminology, and studies of social control.

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What is Edwin Lemert's primary contribution to sociology?

Edwin Lemert was an American sociologist who became central to the development of labeling theory in the study of deviance. He fundamentally shifted the focus from why individuals break rules to how society's reactions to that behavior shape a deviant identity.

What book did Edwin Lemert introduce his concepts of deviance in?

Lemert introduced his foundational concepts in his 1951 book, "Social Pathology." This work laid the crucial groundwork for the labeling perspective in sociology.

What is the difference between primary and secondary deviance according to Lemert?

Primary deviance refers to an initial, isolated rule-breaking act that does not deeply affect an individual's self-concept. Secondary deviance develops when societal reactions force the individual to organize their identity around the deviant label.

How did Edwin Lemert influence modern criminology?

By distinguishing between primary and secondary deviance, Lemert demonstrated that the criminal justice system can actually create career criminals through stigmatization. His theories remain a core component of sociological criminology and the study of social control.

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