Deck 9: Control Theory

Question 1

Control theories according to Hirschi assume that delinquent acts result when

A) an individual's bond to society is weak or broken.
B) parental control is lax.
C) definitions favorable to law-breaking are present.
D) social bonds have been replaced by agents of social control.

Answer 1

an individual's bond to society is weak or broken.

Question 2

Hirschi suggests that the internalization of norms by an individual represents

A) attachment.
B) integration.
C) involvement.
D) moral belief.

Answer 2

attachment.

Question 3

Hirschi defines participation in conventional activities as

A) ritual behavior.
B) involvement.
C) moral belief.
D) compliance

Answer 3

involvement.

Question 4

Unlike cultural deviance theory, control theory assumes the existence of

A) social integration.
B) a shared value system.
C) threats to social order.
D) a system of social control.

Question 5

The concept of commitment assumes that

A) most people are not deviant because they share the same value system.
B) most people conform because they are well integrated.
C) most people conform because of social attachment.
D) most people are not deviant because they have too much to lose.

Question 6

Discuss at least two elements of social bonds which Hirschi describes. Offer examples of each.

Question 7

What do you find most interesting and/or compelling about Hirschi's control theory as an explanation of delinquency? Do you think it fully accounts for all aspects and all types of deviance, delinquency or crime? Why or why not?

Question 8

Why does control theory assume that most people will act conventionally? Describe the kinds of rational decisions that individuals might make when committed to conventional lines of action such as higher education and occupational careers.