CRIM 012H Study Guide - Quiz Guide: Control Theory, Human Nature, Self-Control
Document Summary
Human nature is hedonistic: natural drives to gain pleasure and minimize pain. Reverses the traditional question in criminology, what makes people commit crimes? instead control theory starts with the question, why don"t people commit crimes? . Control theory assumes that everyone would deviate if given the chance and will unless they are controlled. Therefore, the motivation to commit deviance is not problematic, it doesn"t require explanation. Motivation for deviance is assumed to be constant across all individuals. Key idea: the source of morality and pressures for conformity are in the bond between the individual and conventional society. The stronger the social bond, the stronger the social control, and the greater pressures for conformity. Stakes in conformity are the elements of the social bond, and are the links between the individual and conventional society: this idea sheds light on the age-street crime relationship.
