A Causal Model of Secondary Deviance

The Case of Homosexuality

Bibliographic Data

ID2275855
AuthorsRonald A Farrell (State University of New York at Albany), James F Nelson (0000-0002-7439-3033, State University of New York at Albany)
Year1976
Volume17
Issue1
Pages109-120
Publication date1976-01-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueSociological Quarterly (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0038-0253 • E-ISSN: 1533-8525
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1111/j.1533-8525.1976.tb02155.x
OpenAlexW2123505185
LanguageEN
Citations received7
References cited22

The causal structure of a theory of secondary deviance is fitted to data from a sample of 148 male homosexuals. The model suggests that if one perceives others reacting to him on the basis of the homosexual stereotype, his self definition may incorporate the stereotype. These responses, and the accompanied feelings of stigma, are likely to produce stress. As an adaptation, the individual may shift his reference associations to homosexual groups. While providing for a more positive identity, the ultimate outcome of these associations is often the adoption of a role consistent with the stereotype (i.e., secondary deviance). The basic concepts of the theory are operationally defined in terms of Likert-type scales. Dichotomizing the variables on the basis of median scale scores, a log-linear technique of causal inference is used to test the propositions. Offering support for the theory, the analysis suggests that secondary deviance is caused by association in homosexual groups which is caused by perceived societal rejection. Self definition is shown not to be related to secondary deviance, but is affected by perceived rejection and may affect and be affected by homosexual association. Implications for the labeling, anomie, and social and cultural support theories from which the model originated are also discussed

Anomie · Causal inference · Causal model · Criminology · Developmental psychology · Deviance (statistics) · Econometrics · Epistemology · Feeling · Homosexuality · Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) · Male Homosexuality · Men who have sex with men · Psychoanalysis · Sociology · Statistics · Behavioral Health and Interventions · Crime Patterns and Interventions · Crime, Deviance, and Social Control · Crime, Illicit Activities, and Governance · Mathematics · Philosophy · Psychology · Social and Cultural Dynamics · Social and Intergroup Psychology · Social Psychology