In Lemert's study of paranoia, what leads to secondary deviance?

The correct answer is that negative responses from society to primary deviance lead to secondary deviance in Lemert's study. Lemert's theory distinguishes between primary deviance, which is the initial act of deviance that may go unnoticed or be trivialized, and secondary deviance, which occurs when a person internalizes society's negative reactions to their primary deviance. This societal labeling can amplify feelings of alienation or stigmatization, prompting individuals to engage more deeply in deviant behaviors.

For instance, if someone commits a minor offense and society reacts harshly, labeling them as a "criminal," the individual may start to adopt this identity, leading them to continue or escalate their deviant behavior. Therefore, the harmful societal reactions to the initial deviant act play a crucial role in the transition to secondary deviance. In contrast, having a supportive social circle, being labeled as a model citizen, or receiving positive social reinforcement do not contribute to the process of secondary deviance but rather support pro-social behavior and integration into society.