SCHOLAR: CRIME AND DEVIANCE

The social control theory is a theory which attempts to explain how society imposes certain controls in order to discourage certain human behaviors. This is done through deterrence such as sanctions or penalties. It is recognized that human nature is inherently bad, violent, deviant or chaotic. These controls prevent people from becoming deviant. Scholars argue the concept of innatism wherein individuals are born with ideas which then would increase their likelihood of conducting criminal activity. Others subscribe to the concept of tabula rasa wherein they believe humans are born with a clean slate which are then influenced by their associations within the environment. Social control is the same as self control according to Hiroshi. He argues that a lack of self control is the cause of criminal behavior. Furthermore, these individuals anticipate or estimate the benefit or cost of potentially criminal acts. It is argued that the susceptibility to criminal behavior is developed from a child failing to learn self control as they grow up. Also it is theorized that the lack of societal enforcement causes individuals to become criminals. Nevertheless, Hiroshi argues that the bonds that are developed interpersonally can be indicative of a person committing possible deviance or crime. There are four types of bonds and they are as follows, attachment, involvement, belief and commitment. Deviance can be described as nonconformity to societal norms whereas crimes are a violation of the law. It is necessary to understand both concepts as some deviance is not always a crime and crimes are not always deviant.