The Reintegrative Shaming Labeling Theory By Sociologist John Braithwaite

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Cressey’s statement relates to the Greg’s past where he was forced to beat up his closet friend with a bat for the sake of his gang title. Even though Greg knew that dealing heroine and beating his friend was wrong, he was forced by societal influences because it was necessary for his success and survival. Another sociological theory that helps explain Greg’s choices is the Reintegrative Shaming Labeling Theory by sociologist John Braithwaite. Braithwaite’s theory explained the idea that former and modern day criminals would get a label from society. For example, an ex-convict, who was recently released after serving five years for burglary will still be seen to society as a thief even after serving his sentence. However, Braithwaite expanded …show more content…
Stigmatizing shaming would lead an offender to recommit to his past criminal tactics. For example, after completing military boot camp and being released from his prison sentence, Greg Yance looked forward to live a normal law abiding life. However, when applying for jobs and going to interviews, Greg was stigmatized and labeled as a former drug dealer. As a result, he couldn’t find a job and rejoined his friends back in the drug dealing business. If an offender is labeled as a former criminal and stigmatized against for that specific label, then he/she will continue to commit crime. Braithwaite also concluded that reintegrative shaming would help offenders rejoin society as law abiding members. In their Journal of Theoretical & Philosophical Criminology article titled, Reintegrative Shaming: Theory Into Practice, sociology professors Jennifer L. Mongold from King University and Bradley D. Edwards from East Tennessee State University state, “Reintegrative shaming involves punishment followed by efforts to reintegrate the

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