Introduction
The difference between art and vandalism is enormous, yet in some cases these two concepts may be closely linked. I believe that labeling theory may be able to explain various aspects of graffiti social perception and the tendency to not link graffiti with crime. According to the labeling theory, even initially wrongful assumptions and negative treatment towards an individual may encourage the individual to conduct poorly in response. Graffiti perception represents a controversial and unique case, when both ‘good’ and ‘bad’ labels may cause negative consequences.
Article Summary
According to the article, graffiti is exclusively art and not vandalism. The author depicts graffiti as a way of expression, which should not be considered a crime and must be respected. Personally, I believe that the issue is not as simple as it is presented in the article. It is mentioned that there are legitimate forms of street art, yet the author insists that independent graffiti should also not be punished by the law. In my opinion, even though graffiti may and should be considered art, which has certain value, it must not be conducted without permission from the authorities.
Labeling Theory and Graffiti
Unlike many other cases, graffiti perception is significantly influenced by labeling from both the people, who support graffiti and those who disapprove the cation. According to the law any kind of graffiti is prohibited if not agreed with the property owner. The mentioned form of street art was completely illegal until 1980s, which shaped common opinion, that graffiti is always an act of vandalism. Therefore it may be relatively hard to get permission from the authorities and even if permitted, the action may be ambiguously treated by the society. That is the first label, which implies any graffiti is vandalism and causes a wave of protest from artists. Another way of labeling graffiti is calling it art even though it may be conducted illegally. Such label represents a source of approval for criminal activity and despite the label itself being positive may cause unwanted consequences.
Labeling Theory Understanding
The article reinforces my assumptions on the subject of labeling theory, as it clearly shows how opinions of others may influence the individual and encourage committing illegal actions. The entire article may appear to be labeling people drawing graffiti exclusively artists and not vandals. The result of such approach may be seen in the article itself, as people who create graffiti even without the permission do not view their actions as something illegal. The article challenged my existing knowledge by showing how not only labeling someone unlawfully deviant can have negative impact. Justifying illegal actions may also make people commit crime without acknowledging the harm.
Conclusion
Labeling theory made a significant contribution to the field of psychology and sociology. Its principles may be able to explain a wide variety of behaviors and actions. The individual may be considerably influenced by labeling and perception and it is crucial to acknowledge the impact. The above-mentioned article on the topic of graffiti evaluation as art and not vandalism is a prime example of labeling theory. Even though it does not particularly focus its attention on the consequences, the article indirectly describes the role of labeling as a condition for illegal actions. It is possible to track interconnection of biased attitude towards graffiti and unlawful behavior of some street artists.
References
Burach, Rae. “Graffiti Is Art, Not Vandalism.” The Temple News, 2018. Web.
Crossman, Ashley. “An Overview of Labeling Theory,” 2020. Web.