2.4.1.8 - Labelling theory

• Decriminalising minor offences means that fewer younger people were labelled as criminals
• A criminal record can prevent younger people from getting a job and lead to further offending
• Evidence shows that crime control policies based on labelling theory can deal successfully with minor and young offenders
• By avoiding labelling people as criminals and keeping them out of the justice system, they avoid pushing individuals into a deviant career