In the film, "Hard Time: Teens in Maximum Security Prisons
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A profile is given of several youth who have committed serious criminal acts to warrant a rather strict punishment by the justice system. While reviewing the film, think about the major premise of labeling theories. For example, consider the basic premise that "sometimes what we do to young people who get into trouble makes them worse off than had we merely left them alone."
What meaning might this statement have in light of what you see in the video? Also, you might consider, and given perhaps limited information, both formal (by the system itself) and informal (by parents, etc.) labeling of these young people that might actually be making things worse, e.g. the self-fulfilling prophecy.
Finally, consider other alternatives for these youth. Remember, labeling theorists often call for strategic "nonintervention" or at the very least diversion from the more formal systems of social control when young people are involved.
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