Labeling Theory and Deviant Behavior In Children

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had started months earlier and has been escalating since then. Timmy began showing subtle signs of gender identity issues within days of coming to the facility, showing interest in the more female-oriented activities such as dolls and playing house. Other children took note of this, and under the lead of a particularly harsh five-year-old boy began to call him derogatory names based on this behavior. Once the name-calling started, Timmy's gender dysphoric behaviors increased, and he began to not only want to play with dolls, but to also refer to himself as the doll's "Mommy." Soon, Timmy's peers found a new label for him, and Timmy very much accepted this label into his identity. Timmy began signing his drawings "Fagg" instead of writing his name. By the time I observed the facility, Timmy introduced himself as such, and was actively cross-dressing and wearing play make-up. I asked Timmy why he was wearing lipstick, and his response was, "I have to be the best Fag I can be!" ...

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