Describe the concept of damaged identity. Explain why you agree or disagree with the idea that once labels are applied, they increase the likelihood of persistent offending

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

• Stigmatized as "troublemakers," adolescents may begin to incorporate the label into their own self-image: "If everyone says I am a troublemaker, it must be true.".
• Although labels may not have caused adolescents to initiate delinquent behaviors, once applied, they increase the likelihood of persistent offending because the adolescent now has a "damaged identity.".
• Damaged identities follow adolescents around and may never go away.
• Their bad behavior can even be captured by cell phone cameras and be on the Internet almost instantly. A damaged identity provokes some adolescents into repeating their antisocial behaviors, creating new labels and amplifying old ones; this creates what is called a cumulative disadvantage.
• Bearing a negative label limits conventional opportunities, such as educational attainment and employment.
• Delinquents who were labeled in adolescence are much more likely to engage in crime in early adulthood unless they are able to overcome labels and do well in school and obtain meaningful employment.
• Student views will vary.