Social controls are mechanisms and strategies employed by a society or a group to regulate and influence the behavior, thoughts, and actions of its members. These controls are implemented through various social institutions, such as families, schools, religious institutions, and governments. The aim of social controls is to maintain social order, promote conformity to social norms and values, prevent deviant behavior, and ensure the overall well-being and stability of the society.
There are two types of social controls: formal and informal. Formal social controls are established and enforced by official authorities through laws, rules, regulations, and legal systems. These controls include punishments, fines, imprisonment, or other consequences for breaking the established social norms. Informal social controls, on the other hand, are non-legal and are carried out through informal processes like socialization, peer pressure, public opinion, and social interactions. Informal controls often rely on shared values, morals, and expectations within a particular group or community.
Social controls also play a significant role in shaping individual behavior and character development. They help individuals learn acceptable behavior patterns, norms, and values from early childhood onward. Additionally, social controls contribute to the creation of social cohesion and solidarity among individuals, fostering a sense of belonging and shared identity within a society or group.
Overall, social controls are essential for maintaining order and balance within societies, ensuring the adherence to social norms and values, and promoting the harmonious functioning of individuals within their respective social contexts.
The etymology of the word "social controls" can be understood by breaking it down into its constituent parts:
1. Social: The term "social" is derived from the Latin word "socius", meaning "companion" or "ally". It refers to the interactions, relationships, and behavior of individuals within a community or society.
2. Controls: The word "controls" comes from the Latin verb "controllare", which means "to check" or "to regulate". It implies the actions or mechanisms used to manage, regulate, or direct the behavior of individuals or groups.
Therefore, "social controls" refers to the various methods, rules, norms, institutions, or mechanisms that a society or community employs to influence, guide, or restrict the behavior of its members in order to maintain social order and stability. These controls can include laws, customs, morals, informal rules, institutions, and other forms of regulation.