A Level Sociology OCR Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Secondary deviance refers to the behavior that occurs after an individual has been labeled as deviant, which often leads to further rule-breaking. When someone commits an initial act of deviance, known as primary deviance, they may be labeled as a deviant by society. This label can alter their self-identity and how others perceive them, which may cause them to engage in more deviant behavior as they embrace their new identity.

This concept is rooted in labeling theory, which suggests that deviance is not just about the act itself but also about the societal reaction to that act. Once someone is labeled as deviant, they may experience stigmatization, exclusion, or a change in self-perception that can encourage further deviance.

The other options present ideas that do not align with the concept of secondary deviance. Acts of conformity following primary deviance do not relate to the progression from labeling to further rule-breaking. A natural progression of behavior over time does not capture the essence of how societal reactions and labels fuel continued deviance. Finally, minor infractions that go unnoticed are not the focal point of secondary deviance, which specifically involves the societal label and the response to the initial deviant act.