Final answer:
The four forms of social bonds in Social Control Theory are attachment, commitment, involvement, and belief, which connect individuals to society and influence their propensity for criminal behavior.
Step-by-step explanation:
The four forms of social bonds in Social Control Theory, as identified by Travis Hirschi in 1969, play a pivotal role in the connection of individuals to their society and their engagement in or avoidance of criminal behavior.
- Attachment is the emotional and social connection we have with others. The opinions of family, friends, and partners can influence our conformity to societal norms due to our desire to obtain their approval and avoid disapproval.
- Commitment refers to the investments we make in our community, such as a career or community service, which can deter criminal behavior due to the potential loss of these valued connections and achievements.
- Involvement in socially legitimate activities limits the opportunities for deviance by engaging time and energy in constructive pursuits, like sports or arts for children.
- Belief is the shared values within a society that individuals adhere to. When someone values societal norms, they are more likely to conform to them, as in the case of an environmentalist who values a clean park.
These bonds reflect how a person's degree of connectedness to society can influence their likelihood of engaging in deviant or criminal acts. Individuals embedded within a strong network of social bonds are posited to be less likely to deviate from societal norms.