Social Control Definition

Social control is defined as any action, either deliberate or unconscious, that influences conduct toward conformity, whether or not the persons being influenced are aware of the process. Walsh and Hemmens (2008) states, “The term control can be used as a noun to denote restriction and supervision and as a verb to denote regulation and restraint.” Society has a system of social norms that all people are expected to follow. For example, it is understood that it is a sign of respect for a younger person to offer their seat to an older person. It’s not really something one has to think about they just know that it’s socially proper. Another example would be turning the volume off on your phone and being quiet during a church service. The minister …show more content…
Direct control is the effect an officer of the law has on the behavior of those who are aware of the officer’s presence. A person is far less likely to steal something if a police officer is standing there in plain sight. People who behave well regardless of whether or not a police officer is present are controlled indirectly. Walsh and Hemmens (2008) states, “Of course, these two forms of control are not mutually exclusive; each supports and reinforces the other.” Informal control is when a person internalizes rules which gives them a conscience that makes them feel guilty when they misbehave. Walsh and Hemmens (2009) states, “Being ‘censured by opinion’ is informal censure- the merest raising of the eyebrows, the snub, the frown, the cold shoulder, the dressing down. This kind of control depends on whether we value the opinions and affections of others and on our range of significant others.” As informal controls like neighborhood, church, and school weaken, more reliance is placed on formal legal controls. (Walsh and Hemmens …show more content…
While some support it, many are in favor of alternative forms of punishment. According to Public Opinion About the Death Penalty (2016) the most commonly suggested alternative is life without parole and restitution. These people feel that rather than ending a life, that person should pay restitution to their victim or victim’s loved ones for the crime that they committed. Many Americans feel that no matter what crime is committed, taking a life is not acceptable. Public Opinion About the Death Penalty (2016) states, “A national poll of 1,500 registered voters conducted by Lake Research Partners shows growing support for alternatives to the death penalty compared with previous polls. A clear majority of voters (61%) would choose a punishment other than the death penalty for murder, including life with no possibility of parole and with restitution to the victim’s family (39%), life with no possibility of parole (13%), or life with the possibility of parole (9%).” Many people have the attitude that violence does not absolve violence. (Public Opinion About the Death Penalty