Linguistic aspects of transformative labelling: the case of repentant delinquents.
This article describes the linguistic changes that occurred amongst a group of repentant delinquents and assesses their importance in the self-reconstitution process. Each of the three major themes of transformative labelling are not only reflected in the way that the repentants talk; they are also highly influenced by it. In particular, the adoption of new pattern of speech helps the repentants to (i) come to terms with their delinquent past and turn over a new leaf and (ii) forestall the doubts that are bound to occur during the escalation to normal identity.
D000293:Adolescent; D006801:Humans; D007557:Israel; D007604:Juvenile Delinquency / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D012069:Religion and Psychology; D014705:Verbal Behavior