Thomas J. Scheff is best known for his influential work on the sociology of mental illness and emotion. In his seminal book Being Mentally Ill (1966), he developed the labeling theory of mental illness, arguing that psychiatric diagnoses often reflect social reactions rather than objective medical conditions. Scheff emphasized the role of symbolic interactionism in shaping definitions of deviance and illness, showing how societal responses can reinforce and perpetuate stigmatized identities.
Later in his career, he turned to the sociology of emotions, exploring how shame, pride, and emotional communication influence social bonds. His interdisciplinary approach has left a lasting mark on sociology, social psychology, and mental health studies.
