The Social Bond Theory

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The Social Bond theory, later known as the social control theory, was written by Travis Hirschi in 1969. Social Bond theory contains elements such as attachment to families, commitment to social norms and institutions (school, employment, church), involvement in activities, and the belief that these things are important. This theory is derived from the General Theory of Crime. Hirschi’s social bond theory emphasizes the idea that there is an absence of social attachments among delinquent juveniles. Interactions between family and peers on a daily basis affect the lives of delinquents in several ways. One of the most important times in an individual’s life is during adolescence. During this important time youth are in need of firm and positive …show more content…
Many juveniles lack supervision and their parents may not have the time to keep an eye on these children for a lengthy period of time. There are some parents that actually condone the wrongful acts that their children may be committing; therefore, if the social structure at home is condoning delinquent behavior, juvenile delinquency will begin. Hirschi continues to explain that although it is important, the juvenile that is in question may consider his parents opinion, but parental reaction may not be sufficient enough to deter him or her from the act (Flexon, Greenleaf, Lurigio, …show more content…
The norms and values taught to those individuals as an adolescent should be to obey how society works in normal terms. The person actually evaluates the consequences regarding their decision to commit a violent act. This decision making process can be referred to as “stakes in conformity.” From very early in a child’s life they should hopefully learn the difference between “right” and “wrong”. This understanding has a great effect on how youth evolve and adapt in a normal society. For example, if a child is raised in a home where drugs are bought, sold, and used regularly, then that child has a greater chance of having involvement with drugs in the future. For this reason, it is important to evaluate each child/teen individually to understand their personal

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