AQA Sociology Crime and Deviance Practice Test 2026 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide for Exam Success!

Disintegrative shaming, as conceptualized by John Braithwaite, refers to a process that not only labels and stigmatizes the offender but also condemns the individual’s entire persona as a result of their crime. This approach contrasts with reintegrative shaming, which seeks to express disapproval of the act while still maintaining respect for the person. In the case of disintegrative shaming, the societal response focuses on the individual’s deviance in a way that undermines their social identity and can lead to further alienation and recidivism.

This form of shaming can exacerbate the negative identity and social stigma associated with being labeled a criminal, potentially making reintegration into society more challenging. By shaming both the crime and the criminal, disintegrative shaming essentially discourages remorse or rehabilitation, making it a crucial point of discussion in understanding social responses to deviance. As such, option C correctly captures the essence of Braithwaite's concept by highlighting the dual focus on the act of crime and the individual who committed it.