Social control theory is a theory that fetches its origin from the functionalist theories with its major proponent being Travis Hirschi in the year 1969. This theory suggests that the essential life of an individual, one’s principles and assurances, as well as affairs, nurture a lawful surrounding. Further, social control theory assesses the effect of the society on criminal conduct. According to Hirschi, individuals engage in unlawful acts depending on their relationship with the community. Consequently, Hirschi mentions four elements that constitute the different types of communal ties. One of the features he talks about is the attachment to other individuals. There is adequate proof that family affections are immeasurably interrelated with non-criminal behavior. Further, on occasions of criminal acts, the bond between parents and their children tend to be weaker. Commitment to the rules is another element that Hirschi talks about . The Social control Theory in the context of the obligation of following regulations seizures the idea that meeting the requirements of behavior safeguards capital whereas, criminal behavior put it in jeopardy.
Further, Hirschi says that involvement in usual social activities is also an element that constitutes societal bonds. This implies that individuals in the society who engage in social activities like playing games, watching sporting activities or even political talks are unlikely to participate in criminal activities. However, this concept of involvement has two weaknesses which include; it's misunderstanding of the kind of crime and its negligence of the fact that the opportunities for committing a crime are immensely inherent within an individual. Lastly, the belief of an individual plays a vital role as an element in an individual’s delinquency. Social views are known by this theory to be of fundamental significance to the causation of criminal behavior. The control theory, however, is harmonious with the opinion that beliefs prevent criminal behavior even though some scientific theories do not endorse this to be true.
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References
Hirschi, T. (2017). Causes of delinquency . Routledge.
