How do informal social controls, like ridicule or praise, influence individual behavior compared to formal laws?

Informal social controls, such as ridicule or praise, shape how people behave by influencing their feelings and social relationships. Unlike formal laws, which are written rules enforced by authorities, informal controls rely on social interactions and community expectations. For example, if a student helps a classmate and receives praise from friends, they are likely to feel good and continue helping others. On the other hand, if someone is ridiculed for not following group norms, they may change their behavior to avoid negative social feedback. Overall, informal controls can create a strong sense of belonging and motivate individuals to act in ways that align with their community's values.