Becker
Howard Becker is a symbolic interactionist who developed labelling theory, arguing that deviance is created through labelling and social reaction, not through inherent characteristics of the act.
Real World
Becker's 1971 study of Chicago high-school teachers found they judged students against an 'ideal pupil' image closely matching middle-class appearance, speech, and conduct — disadvantaging working-class students regardless of ability.
Exam Focus
Quote Becker's key definition of deviance as a 'consequence of the application of rules by others' to demonstrate conceptual precision.
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