Welcome to Social Control!
Ever wondered why most people follow the rules most of the time? Why don't we all just walk out of shops without paying or shout in the middle of a library? That is what this chapter is all about! We are exploring Social Control—the different ways society makes sure we behave "properly."
In this section, we will look at the "bosses" of society (formal control), the "unwritten rules" we follow with our friends (informal control), and why some sociologists think the system is fairer for some people than others.
Don't worry if this seems a bit deep at first—we’ll break it down step-by-step with plenty of examples you’ll recognize from everyday life!
What is Social Control?
At its simplest, Social Control is the process by which society encourages people to follow norms (unwritten rules) and values (what we think is important). To do this, society uses sanctions.
Think of it like this: If society was a game, social control would be the referee making sure everyone plays by the rules.
Positive and Negative Sanctions
Sociologists use the word sanction to describe the "consequence" of an action. It’s not always a punishment!
• Positive Sanctions: Rewards for behaving well (e.g., a "well done" from a teacher or a bonus at work).
• Negative Sanctions: Punishments for breaking rules (e.g., a fine for speeding or being "grounded" by parents).
Quick Review: Social control keeps society stable by using rewards and punishments to make sure we follow the rules.
1. Informal Social Control
This is the type of control we experience every single day, often without even noticing it. It is carried out by informal agencies like your family, your friends, the media, and your neighbors.
How it works: It is based on unwritten rules. There isn't a law saying you have to say "please" and "thank you," but people will think you are rude if you don't!
Examples of Informal Sanctions:
• A parent giving you "the look" when you're being loud.
• Friends ignoring you (the "cold shoulder") because you told a secret.
• People staring at you if you wear pajamas to a wedding.
Did you know? Peer pressure is a very powerful form of informal social control. We often change our behavior just to fit in with our friends!
2. Formal Social Control
This is the "official" version of control. It is carried out by formal agencies that have the power to enforce written laws and rules.
Agencies of Formal Control include:
• The Police: They investigate crimes and arrest people.
• The Judiciary (Courts): Judges and juries decide if someone is guilty and what the punishment should be.
• The Prison Service: They carry out the punishment of taking away someone's freedom.
Formal Sanctions are official and recorded, such as:
• Fines.
• Community service.
• Prison sentences.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Don't confuse "Rules" with "Laws." A school rule (like no hoodies) is usually informal/agency-specific, whereas a Law (like no stealing) is part of formal social control.
Key Takeaway: Informal control happens through social pressure and unwritten rules, while formal control happens through official organizations and written laws.
3. Sociological Perspectives on Social Control
Different sociologists see social control in very different ways. Depending on which "lens" they look through, social control is either a good thing or a way to keep people down.
Functionalism: The "Team" View
Functionalists believe social control is essential and positive. They think society needs rules so that everything runs smoothly.
• It creates social cohesion (sticking together).
• It makes life predictable and safe.
• We all agree on the rules, so control is just us looking out for each other.
Marxism: The "Power" View
Marxists are much more suspicious. They believe social control is used by the ruling class to control the working class.
• Laws are made to protect the property of the rich.
• The police focus more on working-class "street crime" than big "corporate crimes" committed by wealthy companies.
• Formal control keeps the poor in their place.
Interactionism: The "Labeling" View
Interactionists focus on how we label people. They are interested in Becker’s ideas.
• They believe that "deviance" is only deviance because someone in power has put a label on it.
• Social control can actually make crime worse by "labeling" someone as a criminal, which makes them act like one (the self-fulfilling prophecy).
4. Key Study: Heidensohn and Female Conformity
In your exam, you need to know the work of Frances Heidensohn. She wanted to know why women commit so much less crime than men. Her answer? Women are controlled more by society.
She argues that we live in a patriarchal society (dominated by men) where women are controlled in three main areas:
1. Control at Home:
Women spend more time on housework and childcare. This "domestic bond" means they simply have less time to go out and commit crime.
Analogy: It’s hard to be a cat burglar if you’re busy doing the washing and putting kids to bed!
2. Control in Public:
Women are often controlled by the fear of male violence or the fear of losing their reputation. If a woman is out late alone, people might judge her or she might feel unsafe, so she stays home.
3. Control at Work:
In many jobs, women are supervised by male managers. Sexual harassment or the "glass ceiling" (not being able to get promoted) acts as a form of control over their behavior.
Memory Aid: Remember H.P.W. (Home, Public, Work). Heidensohn Prevents Wrongdoing!
Summary: Heidensohn says women conform because patriarchy places so many restrictions on their lives that they have fewer opportunities to be deviant.
Quick Check: Can you answer these?
1. What is the difference between a positive and a negative sanction?
2. Give an example of an agency of formal social control.
3. Why do Marxists dislike the way social control works?
4. According to Heidensohn, name one place where women are controlled by men.
Well done! You've just finished the notes on Social Control. Keep these terms in mind as you move on to the next part of the Crime and Deviance section!