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Unit 4, AC 2.1- Explain forms of social control
External Forms of Social Control
This page delves into the external forms of social control, which are mechanisms imposed by society to regulate individual behavior. These forms of control are more visible and often involve formal institutions and systems.
Agencies of social control are organisations or institutions that impose rules to shape behavior. These can include family, peer groups, and the education system. These agencies can employ both positive and negative sanctions to encourage desired behavior.
Coercion is a significant external form of social control, involving the use or threat of force to compel individuals to act in a certain way. The criminal justice system often utilises coercion through negative sanctions, such as imprisonment.
The Criminal Justice System plays a crucial role in external social control. It comprises various agencies with the power to enforce formal legal sanctions. These include the police, Crown Prosecution Service , judges, magistrates, and the prison service.
Example: The police have powers to stop, search, arrest, detain, and question suspects, demonstrating how the CJS exerts external social control.
Highlight: Fear of punishment is a key aspect of external social control, aiming to deter individuals from committing offenses.
Vocabulary: Formal social control refers to the official mechanisms, such as laws and regulations, used to maintain order in society.
Control Theory in Criminology
This page explores control theory in criminology, focusing on Travis Hirschi's concept of bonds of attachment. This theory provides insights into why individuals conform to societal norms and refrain from criminal behavior.
Hirschi argues that crime occurs when an individual's bonds to society are weak. He identifies four key elements of social bonding:
- Attachment: The more individuals care about others' opinions, the less likely they are to engage in criminal activity.
- Commitment: A strong commitment to conventional lifestyles, such as education and employment, reduces the likelihood of offending.
- Involvement: Active participation in positive activities, like community work or studying, leaves less time for criminal behavior.
- Beliefs: Socialisation that instills a belief in obeying the law decreases the probability of offending.
The theory emphasizes the importance of parenting in creating strong social bonds. Parents are encouraged to be involved in their children's lives, take an interest in their education and friendships, and express disapproval of criminal behavior.
Definition: Control theory in criminology focuses on the factors that prevent individuals from engaging in criminal behavior, rather than what causes them to commit crimes.
Highlight: Youth clubs and community involvement are justified as crime prevention measures based on control theory principles.
Quote: "Crime only occurs when someone's bonds to society are weak." - This summarizes the core premise of Hirschi's control theory.
The page also briefly mentions feminist perspectives on social control and crime. Heidensohn argues that women's low offending rate is due to their oppression in patriarchal society, while Carlen suggests that women who experienced family abuse or were in care failed to form strong bonds of attachment, leading to criminal behavior.
Control Theory and Social Bonds
The final page explores social control theory and its applications, particularly focusing on Hirschi's bonds of attachment theory.
Quote: "Crime only occurs when someone's bonds to society are weak" - Travis Hirschi
Definition: Control theory explains how social bonds and attachments prevent individuals from engaging in criminal behavior.
Example: Youth clubs and community involvement programs demonstrate practical applications of control theory principles.
Highlight: Feminist perspectives, including Heidensohn's and Carlen's work, provide important insights into gender-specific aspects of social control.
Internal Forms of Social Control
This page introduces the concept of internal forms of social control, which are mechanisms that individuals internalise to regulate their behavior in society. These forms of control are deeply ingrained and often operate subconsciously.
The superego, developed through early socialisation, acts as a moral conscience that guides individuals in distinguishing right from wrong. It plays a crucial role in exercising self-control and preventing antisocial behavior.
Tradition and culture also serve as powerful internal controls. Through socialisation, individuals adopt cultural values, norms, and traditions as part of their identity. Conforming to these traditions reinforces one's sense of belonging within a community.
The internalisation of social rules and morality is another significant aspect of internal social control. This process occurs through socialisation, where individuals learn and adopt rules from parents, religious institutions, schools, and peer groups.
Definition: Informal social control refers to the ways in which norms, roles, and values shape individual behavior without the need for formal laws or regulations.
Example: A Muslim individual fasting during Ramadan demonstrates how cultural traditions can act as a form of internal social control.
Vocabulary: "Rational ideology" is a term used to describe the process by which individuals internalise social rules and use them to determine right from wrong.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Understanding Informal and Formal Social Control Methods in Society
Formal and informal social control mechanisms play a crucial role in maintaining social order and preventing criminal behavior. This comprehensive guide explores internal and external forms of control, their implementation through various agencies, and theoretical frameworks explaining their effectiveness.
- Internal... Show more
External Forms of Social Control
This page delves into the external forms of social control, which are mechanisms imposed by society to regulate individual behavior. These forms of control are more visible and often involve formal institutions and systems.
Agencies of social control are organisations or institutions that impose rules to shape behavior. These can include family, peer groups, and the education system. These agencies can employ both positive and negative sanctions to encourage desired behavior.
Coercion is a significant external form of social control, involving the use or threat of force to compel individuals to act in a certain way. The criminal justice system often utilises coercion through negative sanctions, such as imprisonment.
The Criminal Justice System plays a crucial role in external social control. It comprises various agencies with the power to enforce formal legal sanctions. These include the police, Crown Prosecution Service , judges, magistrates, and the prison service.
Example: The police have powers to stop, search, arrest, detain, and question suspects, demonstrating how the CJS exerts external social control.
Highlight: Fear of punishment is a key aspect of external social control, aiming to deter individuals from committing offenses.
Vocabulary: Formal social control refers to the official mechanisms, such as laws and regulations, used to maintain order in society.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
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Improve your grades
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Control Theory in Criminology
This page explores control theory in criminology, focusing on Travis Hirschi's concept of bonds of attachment. This theory provides insights into why individuals conform to societal norms and refrain from criminal behavior.
Hirschi argues that crime occurs when an individual's bonds to society are weak. He identifies four key elements of social bonding:
- Attachment: The more individuals care about others' opinions, the less likely they are to engage in criminal activity.
- Commitment: A strong commitment to conventional lifestyles, such as education and employment, reduces the likelihood of offending.
- Involvement: Active participation in positive activities, like community work or studying, leaves less time for criminal behavior.
- Beliefs: Socialisation that instills a belief in obeying the law decreases the probability of offending.
The theory emphasizes the importance of parenting in creating strong social bonds. Parents are encouraged to be involved in their children's lives, take an interest in their education and friendships, and express disapproval of criminal behavior.
Definition: Control theory in criminology focuses on the factors that prevent individuals from engaging in criminal behavior, rather than what causes them to commit crimes.
Highlight: Youth clubs and community involvement are justified as crime prevention measures based on control theory principles.
Quote: "Crime only occurs when someone's bonds to society are weak." - This summarizes the core premise of Hirschi's control theory.
The page also briefly mentions feminist perspectives on social control and crime. Heidensohn argues that women's low offending rate is due to their oppression in patriarchal society, while Carlen suggests that women who experienced family abuse or were in care failed to form strong bonds of attachment, leading to criminal behavior.
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Control Theory and Social Bonds
The final page explores social control theory and its applications, particularly focusing on Hirschi's bonds of attachment theory.
Quote: "Crime only occurs when someone's bonds to society are weak" - Travis Hirschi
Definition: Control theory explains how social bonds and attachments prevent individuals from engaging in criminal behavior.
Example: Youth clubs and community involvement programs demonstrate practical applications of control theory principles.
Highlight: Feminist perspectives, including Heidensohn's and Carlen's work, provide important insights into gender-specific aspects of social control.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Internal Forms of Social Control
This page introduces the concept of internal forms of social control, which are mechanisms that individuals internalise to regulate their behavior in society. These forms of control are deeply ingrained and often operate subconsciously.
The superego, developed through early socialisation, acts as a moral conscience that guides individuals in distinguishing right from wrong. It plays a crucial role in exercising self-control and preventing antisocial behavior.
Tradition and culture also serve as powerful internal controls. Through socialisation, individuals adopt cultural values, norms, and traditions as part of their identity. Conforming to these traditions reinforces one's sense of belonging within a community.
The internalisation of social rules and morality is another significant aspect of internal social control. This process occurs through socialisation, where individuals learn and adopt rules from parents, religious institutions, schools, and peer groups.
Definition: Informal social control refers to the ways in which norms, roles, and values shape individual behavior without the need for formal laws or regulations.
Example: A Muslim individual fasting during Ramadan demonstrates how cultural traditions can act as a form of internal social control.
Vocabulary: "Rational ideology" is a term used to describe the process by which individuals internalise social rules and use them to determine right from wrong.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user