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HomeHomework HelpsociologySocial Control Mechanisms

Social Control Mechanisms

Social control refers to the mechanisms, strategies, and institutions that societies use to regulate individual behavior in line with established norms. This includes both informal norms, such as folkways that may result in social ridicule or praise, and formal norms codified into laws that can lead to legal penalties. Understanding social control is crucial in sociology as it highlights how societies maintain order and conformity, and provides insight into the complex relationship between individual behavior and societal expectations.

intermediate
2 hours
Sociology
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Overview

Social control mechanisms are vital for maintaining order and regulating behavior within societies. They encompass both formal controls, such as laws and regulations, and informal controls, like social norms and expectations. Understanding these mechanisms helps us grasp how societies function and t...

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Key Terms

Social Control
The ways in which society regulates individual behavior.

Example: Laws are a form of social control.

Norms
Social rules that define acceptable behavior.

Example: Shaking hands when greeting is a social norm.

Sanctions
Consequences for violating norms.

Example: Fines for speeding are a formal sanction.

Formal Control
Regulation enforced by official institutions.

Example: Police enforcing laws.

Informal Control
Regulation through social norms and expectations.

Example: Peer pressure to conform.

Deviance
Behavior that violates societal norms.

Example: Stealing is considered deviant behavior.

Related Topics

Deviance
Study of behaviors that violate societal norms and the reactions to them.
intermediate
Criminology
Examination of crime, criminal behavior, and the justice system.
advanced
Social Norms
Understanding the unwritten rules that govern behavior in society.
beginner

Key Concepts

formal controlinformal controlnormssanctions