Final answer:
The Labelling theory argues that the cause of crime is the labeling of individuals as deviant by society, which can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy of engaging in criminal behavior.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Labelling theory argues that the cause of crime is the labeling of individuals as deviant by society. According to this theory, when individuals are stigmatized and labeled as criminals or deviant, they may internalize and accept this label, which can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy of engaging in criminal behavior.
For example, in the scenario you provided, the Labelling theory would suggest that the convicted sexual offender, after being released on parole, has been labeled as deviant by society. This labeling may influence their identity and behavior, leading them to engage in repeated sexual crimes as they have accepted a new master status as a criminal.