Final answer:
The Revised Social Control Theory posits that crime is primarily caused by a lack of self-control. It extends the original Control Theory's emphasis on social bonds by adding self-control as a critical factor in the likelihood of an individual engaging in criminal behavior.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main premise of the Revised Social Control Theory (2004) is that crime is caused by a lack of self-control. This theory is an extension of earlier work by criminologist Travis Hirschi, who originally postulated that social control is directly affected by the strength of social bonds and that deviance results from a feeling of disconnection from society.Hirschi identified four types of social bonds that connect people to society attachment, commitment, involvement, and belief. This theory suggests that individuals who are well-integrated into society with strong bonds are less likely to engage in criminal behavior, as they have more to lose and gain approval from adherence to social norms and values.Over time, Hirschi and other scholars have recognized that self-control is a critical component in understanding why individuals commit crimes. It suggests that low self-control might lead to impulsivity and a propensity to find immediate gratification in behaviors that are often unlawful, thus linking the lack of self-control to a greater likelihood of criminal conduct, independent of an individual's social bonds.In conclusion, while social bonds are vital in deterring criminal behavior, the Revised Social Control Theory emphasizes the role of self-control in preventing crime, positing it as a main contributing factor.