Explain the concept behind the Social Control (Bond) Theory. Be sure to include the four social bonds.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The Social control theorists claim that all human beings are, by nature, rule breakers.
The bonds that people have to society and its moral code are what keep them from breaking the law and remaining socially controlled. When an individual is strongly bonded to his or her family, religious affiliation, school, or community, that individual is less likely to engage in delinquent behavior. When these bonds become weakened, deviant behavior, such as drug use, results. Social control theorists identify four social bonds that promote conformity: attachment, commitment, involvement, and belief.
The first bond - Attachment refers to one's closeness to significant others, such as parents, peers, and teachers. Individuals will conform to social norms and refrain from drug use because they seek the approval of these significant individuals. The second bond - Commitment refers to an individual's investment and pursuit in reaching conventional goals, such as the attainment of a good education or satisfying job. Involvement, the third bond, refers to the extent to which one is associated with conventional activities within a school, community, or religious affiliation. Belief, the fourth bond, refers to how well an individual has internalized the moral values of society, such as honesty, perseverance, and respect for authority.