Social control theory is a framework that seeks to explain how societies maintain order and stability by regulating individual behavior. Developed by sociologists such as Travis Hirschi, Walter Reckless, and Howard Becker, social control theory posits that individuals conform to societal norms and rules not only because of fear of punishment, but also due to their attachments to and investment in society. The theory views socialization as a key factor in shaping individual behavior, and posits that individuals who lack strong social ties or who feel disconnected from society are more likely to engage in deviant behavior.
The underlying premise of social control theory is that individuals are inherently inclined towards deviance and law-breaking, and that it is only through the presence of social controls that these tendencies are kept in check. Social control can be formal, in the form of laws, rules, and regulations, or informal, in the form of social norms, values, and beliefs. Formal social control is enforced by institutions such as the police, courts, and correctional systems, while informal social control is enforced by peer groups, families, and other social networks.
One of the most influential social control theorists is Travis Hirschi, who developed a theory of social bonds. According to Hirschi, individuals are less likely to engage in deviant behavior if they have strong bonds with society. These bonds can be categorized into four types: attachment, commitment, involvement, and belief. Attachment refers to an individual’s emotional ties to other people, such as family members and friends. Commitment refers to an individual’s investment in conventional goals and activities, such as education and employment. Involvement refers to an individual’s participation in conventional activities that leave little time for deviant behavior, such as sports or community service. Belief refers to an individual’s acceptance of the moral and ethical values of society.
Walter Reckless developed a similar theory, which explains how social norms, values, and beliefs are used to regulate behavior and prevent deviance. According to Reckless, social control can be either external or internal, and it is necessary for maintaining social order and stability.
External social control refers to the use of formal and informal sanctions by society to prevent individuals from engaging in deviant behavior. Formal sanctions include laws, rules, and regulations enforced by the government, while informal sanctions are the social pressures and expectations placed on individuals by their peers, family, and community.
Internal social control, on the other hand, is the individual’s own internalization of societal norms and values. This is achieved through a process of socialization, where individuals learn the social norms and values through interaction with others in society, and then internalize them to guide their behavior.
Reckless believed that individuals who are more closely connected to society and have strong social bonds are less likely to engage in deviant behavior. These social bonds can take many forms, such as family relationships, friendships, and involvement in community organizations.
However, Reckless also recognized that some individuals may be more prone to deviant behavior due to factors such as low self-control, poor impulse control, and a lack of moral values. In such cases, social control measures may be necessary to prevent deviant behavior.
Overall, Reckless’s social control theory emphasizes the importance of socialization and the role of social bonds in preventing deviant behavior. It also acknowledges the need for external social control measures when internal controls are insufficient to prevent deviance.