What does Labeling Theory suggest about the impact of labels on behavior?

Labeling Theory posits that the labels assigned to individuals can significantly influence their behavior and self-identity. When a person is labeled—such as being called a "delinquent" or "troublemaker"—they may internalize that label, which can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy. This means that the individual starts to act in ways that align with the label, often leading to behaviors that reflect the negative connotation of the label.

The theory highlights the social process through which individuals come to be defined by others based on certain traits or actions. This can result in stigmatization and social exclusion, which further push individuals towards the negative behaviors associated with their labels. In this way, labels are not just passive descriptors but act as powerful influences on an individual's self-perception and actions, often leading to detrimental outcomes.

In contrast, options suggesting that labels have no effect, only promote positive behaviors, or are relevant only in academic settings don't capture the broader implications of how labeling operates in society and the profound impact it can have across various contexts in an individual's life.