CRIM 101 Lecture Notes - Social Control Theory, Social Control, Self-Control

61 views5 pages

Document Summary

Social control and rational choice theories say there is nothing unique about criminal behaviour, and that motivation to engage in such behaviour is quite widespread. Instead of asking why certain individuals commit crimes, social control and rational choice theorists ask why more individuals don"t commit crimes. Notion underlying all types of control theory is that conformity cannot be taken for granted. If you want conformity and social control, you need effective socialization. If people don"t learn/internalize social conventions or norms, then social controls will break down or become ineffective. Inner containment: self control, good self-image, ability to tolerate frustration. Outer containment: family values, institutional reinforcement, effective supervision. External pulls: poverty, unemployment, the media, or delinquent friends. Attachment: ties of affection and respect, with parents, school teachers. Commitment: getting good education, learning trade or profession, finding a good job. Involvement: being involved in school, in recreation, with family. Belief: shared values it"s wrong to steal, people should respect the law.