From prison to integration: applying modified labeling theory to sex offenders

This research examines social–psychological consequences associated with being stigmatized as a sex offender. Surveys administered to 150 sex offenders were analyzed using modified labeling theory to examine the effect of a sex offender’s perception of devaluation and/or discrimination on his ability to successfully rejoin society following conviction of a sex offense. Findings indicate that the more an offender fears being devalued and/or discriminated against, the more likely he is to avoid activities that could facilitate social reintegration, suggesting that the stigmatizing label placed on sex offenders may lead to unintended consequences.