Deterrence and Control Theory

This page explores deterrence as a form of social control and introduces control theory in criminology.

Deterrence uses the threat of punishment to prevent crime and has two key assumptions:

1. Individual deterrence: Punishment deters offenders from committing future crimes
2. General deterrence: Fear of punishment prevents others from committing similar crimes

Example: "Getting tough on crime" policies like mandatory minimum sentences aim to deter criminal behavior.

Control theory in criminology, developed by Travis Hirschi, examines why people follow the law. It proposes that people conform due to their bonds with society, which include:

• Attachment: Caring about others' opinions • Commitment: Investment in a law-abiding life • Involvement: Participation in legal activities • Belief: Socialization to follow norms

Highlight: Strong social bonds make individuals less likely to engage in criminal behavior.

Example: Youth clubs keep young people busy with legal activities, strengthening their bonds to society.

Parenting and Social Control

This page focuses on the role of parenting in creating social bonds that prevent offending behavior.

Gottfredson and Hirschi argue that low self-control, resulting from poor socialization and inconsistent parenting, is a major factor in delinquency.

Highlight: Lack of parental supervision is an important factor in juvenile delinquency.

To prevent delinquency, parents should:

• Be involved in teenagers' lives and spend time with them • Take an interest in their activities outside of school • Show a strong commitment to their children's well-being

Example: Parents who actively participate in their children's lives help strengthen social bonds and reduce the likelihood of criminal behavior.

The page also mentions Walter Reckless's work, which emphasizes the importance of parenting in social control, though specific details are not provided in the transcript.

Vocabulary: Socialization refers to the process by which individuals learn and internalize the norms, values, and behaviors of their society.

Understanding the role of parenting in social control is crucial for developing effective criminology unit 4 strategies and interventions to prevent juvenile delinquency.