In conclusion, it is evident that there are a number a key concepts and theories which aim to understand the link between labelling theory and achievement. Although, it is arguable that there are numerous other factors, which contribute to the divide in achievement e.g. ethnicity and gender, social class still remains predominant. Bartlett and Burton (2012) have also considered that although education has aimed to diminish inequality, it is somehow reproducing it. Although I have looked at quantifiable data, it can be said that without taking these small factors into consideration, the evidence could be seen as invalid. Moreover, issues such as parents not wanting to apply for FSM means the statistics can be seen as problematic (Dowler and Turner, 2001).
Becker’s labelling theory has been criticised for not aiming to justify the cause of deviance, but to simply explain deviant behaviour (Groode, 1975). He is not stating that the reason people become deviant is because of labels attached to them, he is merely just explaining a reason that one might be deviant. So is it fair to say that everyone that commits a crime, or acts in a way that goes against the norms is deviant?
In summary, it is challenging to understand the inequalities that exist in our society and more so in our school system, there have been many legislations throughout the years put in place to try and heal the gap between the social classes, and although the gap has been decreasing in the past few years it is still adequate to say there is still a major attainment gap between the social classes which leaves some better of then others with opportunities for university, better jobs and a higher income (Bartlett and Burton, 2012). Will the attainment gap remain a cycle which cannot be changed?
Becker’s labelling theory has been criticised for not aiming to justify the cause of deviance, but to simply explain deviant behaviour (Groode, 1975). He is not stating that the reason people become deviant is because of labels attached to them, he is merely just explaining a reason that one might be deviant. So is it fair to say that everyone that commits a crime, or acts in a way that goes against the norms is deviant?
In summary, it is challenging to understand the inequalities that exist in our society and more so in our school system, there have been many legislations throughout the years put in place to try and heal the gap between the social classes, and although the gap has been decreasing in the past few years it is still adequate to say there is still a major attainment gap between the social classes which leaves some better of then others with opportunities for university, better jobs and a higher income (Bartlett and Burton, 2012). Will the attainment gap remain a cycle which cannot be changed?