the term social control refers to select one:
a. justifications for deviant behavior.
b. penalties and rewards for conduct concerning a social norm.
c. techniques and strategies for preventing deviant human behavior in any society.
d. behavior that violates the norms of a group.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is c. techniques and strategies for preventing deviant human behavior in any society.
Explanation:
Social control is a sociological concept that refers to the mechanisms, strategies, and institutions that societies employ to regulate individual behavior and maintain social order. It encompasses the ways in which societies promote conformity to norms and discourage deviance—behavior that violates established societal rules. Social control can be both formal and informal, operating through a variety of methods.
Formal social control includes laws, regulations, and official sanctions. This form is enforced by governmental institutions, such as the police and the judiciary. For example, criminal laws penalize actions like theft or violence, thus deterring individuals from engaging in such behavior due to fear of legal consequences.
Informal social control, on the other hand, arises from social interactions and expectations within a community or group. This includes social norms, peer pressure, family influence, and cultural traditions. For instance, individuals might refrain from behaving in a socially deviant manner out of fear of social ostracism or disapproval from family and friends.
The primary goal of social control is to maintain order and predictability in society, enabling individuals to coexist peacefully and cooperatively. Societies employ various strategies to ensure adherence to norms, including socialization, which instills shared values and expectations from a young age. When individuals deviate from these norms, social control mechanisms can activate, leading to corrective actions such as reprimands, shaming, or even incarceration in more severe cases.
In summary, social control is essential for societal stability and functioning, utilizing a range of techniques to prevent deviance and encourage conformity to collective values and norms.