In social psychology, when society labels an individual as deviant, which two components are primarily involved in the labeling process?

• A. The individual's intelligence and their socioeconomic status
• B. The act itself and the societal reaction to the act
• C. The individual's motivation and their peer group influence
• D. The individual's personality traits and their family background

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that labeling theory in social psychology focuses on how society's reaction to a behavior influences the perception of deviance.
2. Identify that the labeling process involves two main components: the behavior or act that is considered deviant, and how society responds or reacts to that behavior.
3. Recognize that the individual's personal characteristics like intelligence, motivation, or personality are not the primary focus in labeling theory.
4. Focus on the interaction between the act itself (the behavior) and the societal reaction (such as stigma, sanctions, or acceptance) as the core elements of labeling.
5. Conclude that the two components primarily involved in labeling an individual as deviant are the act itself and the societal reaction to the act.