The Pros And Cons Of Social Theory

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What is a social theory? Social theories are essential building blocks of evidence used to study and interpret social phenomena. Sociological theories are the core and underlying strength of the discipline. The term social theory is coined by the idea about how society changes and develops rapidly making it difficult for those who live in the past to catch up to a new way of thinking. According to Charles Lemart “there are methods of explaining social behavior an extensive list that molded the world for centuries. Social theories provide general theories to explain actions and behavior of society as a whole and self, incorporating sociological, political, and philosophical ideas” (Pg 23) that we use with everyday situation. Social theory is …show more content…

There’s a major difference between General Theory and Hirschis Social Bond theory and that would be that Hirschis theory is thoroughly based on peers and peer groups of individuals. The four basic elements of social bond theory are attachment referring to a persons sensitivity to and interest looking for the acceptance of social norms and social conscience. The next element is commitment, meaning you involve time, energy, and effort into everything and will try to do anything to not jeopardize what you worked for. The third element is involvement, involvement leaves you to do many things leaving little to no time for an opportunity for crime to be presented to you. Lastly, the fourth element is belief that is common value system within an individual’s society or subgroup. (PG 161). To enumerate what I said earlier if the adult figure does not instill morals, values, and beliefs into adolescents it’s more likely that the adolescent would commit illegal …show more content…

That element has a connection to social norms a significant part to society and social structure. Alder, Laufer, and Meuller (2011) “Social control theory focuses techniques and strategies that regulate human behavior and lead to conformity, or obedience to society’s rules” as a result social bond theory ties to a macro theory. With all the evidence its proves that because of the influences other groups in the world have contributing to society; whereas someone living in a bad area is prone to adopt the same criminal

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