To prevent crime, we must first understand the causes of crime being committed. This is where criminological theories come into play. These theories share a common goal of studying why a person commits a crime. One of the many theories, social control theory, focuses on why a person, especially a young person, does not engage in such acts instead. This theory believes that the type of ties established between an individual and society plays a role in the likelihood that one will engage in illegal acts. For example, criminal acts are more likely to occur when an individual's connection to society is weak or broken. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Social control theory is further explained with the use of the four elements of social bonding. The four elements include attachment, commitment, involvement and finally belief. First, attachment refers to the relationship an individual has with others and institutions, such as family, peers, teachers, peers, and school and workplace, respectively. Greater importance is given to parents and school attachments. For example, when the bond with parents and school teachers is strong, young people in this context will refrain from committing delinquent acts. Parents and teachers will teach young people socially acceptable behaviors which, in turn, will shape young people. Therefore, young people will consider them a good example and will not want to upset those they care about and love with their actions. Second, commitment refers to an individual putting in time and effort to achieve their goals, such as academic ones. and career goals. To give an example, a student who aspires to enter University or wishes to undertake a desired career would not risk hindering the process of achieving objectives by becoming involved in any illicit act. So, make sure you are well committed towards the goals. Third, engaging in prosocial activities will allow a person to form bonds with others and also occupy their time productively. When a young person engages in sports, co-curricular activities, studies or any other prosocial activity, he or she will be too busy to spend time on antisocial activities. The last element, belief, refers to the belief in social norms and values ​​as laws are meant to be followed and not broken. An individual will not engage in any delinquent act if he strongly believes in such values ​​and norms as to do otherwise would go against his belief. For example, young people will not commit acts of theft if they believe that stealing is a crime. Strengths and Weaknesses Just like any other theory, social control theory has its strengths and weaknesses. Some of the strengths of this theory are the acquisition of significant data support that this theory has received, such as the Richmond (California) Youth Project. For example, Hirschi's research on parental attachment indicates that youth who have less close communicative ties with their fathers are more likely to report delinquent acts than those who have close communicative ties. Therefore, it can be agreed that social control theory states the fact that if any of the social ties between an individual and society are weak, there is a high probability of delinquency. Furthermore, this theory explains why an individual adheres to social norms and rules and not the other way around. If delinquent behaviors are innate in humans, then:.