The sociological deviance theories
Which one of the sociological deviance theories best explains excessive police violence? You should consider both the police killings of unarmed Black men as well as aggression against peaceful protesters to be deviant behavior, the question is not concerned with legitimate police use of force in fighting crime. Apply this theory to suggest the best strategy to decrease the problem and explain in such a way that it is clear you understand the theory.
Sample Solution
Labeling theory best explains excessive police violence when considering the police killings of unarmed Black men as well as aggression against peaceful protesters. This theory suggests that deviance is socially constructed and often results from people being labeled deviant by others in society (Becker 1963).
In terms of police brutality, this means that officers are more likely to view African Americans as criminals which leads to their behavior being judged harshly with little regard for mitigating circumstances; consequently this triggers a cycle of negative interactions whereby each interaction reinforces the officer’s preconceived bias leading them to treat suspects more aggressively over time (Rios & Dunn 2018). Additionally, labeling individuals or groups can lead to an increase in criminal behaviors among those affected by it due feelings alienation and frustration stemming from unequal treatment under the law (Hagan & McCarthy 1997).
Similarly, labeling also influences how officers interact with peaceful protesters; according to research done by The New York Times(2020), data shows there have been numerous instances where peaceful demonstrators were subjected violent tactics while protesting despite no indication they posed any threat. This acts an extension labels placed on certain individuals or groups where authorities perceive them dangerous regardless evidence contrary.
Overall, it is clear that labeling plays important role in understanding why some members within law enforcement may engage such extreme measures against innocent citizens. As long these biases continue exist then such behaviors will remain commonplace until steps taken disarm existing mindsets within authority figures about certain populations .
