As a student of Sociology it is important to draw upon a variety of perspectives and to consider the multitude of positions that have been taken by the great Sociologists over the years. When writing a term paper or presenting a position, be sure to draw from a variety of backgrounds and ideologies in order to shape a unique perspective and form a complete thought. One Sociologist that is great to bring into a variety of topics and to reference is the great thinker Travis Hirschi.

Travis Hirschi- Social Control

Hirschi’s sociological focus ranged on a variety of topics that can be related to both Sociology and Criminology. Born and educated in Utah, Hirschi was also a professor in life at the University of Arizona. Hirschi brings a unique perspective into why we behave the way that we do. The focus of Hirschi’s main principles were why people participated in delinquent behavior and what factors went into stopping a person from behaving delinquently. He is part of the movement focusing on Social Control.

What is Social Control?

Social Control is the enforcement of conformity by society upon its members, either by law or by social pressure. the influence of any element in social life working to maintain the pattern of such life.

In reference to the teaching of Travis Hirschi, there were four main things that Hirschi believed keep a person from participating in delinquent behavior. These four items that all rational people would consider prior to participating in delinquent behavior would be Attachment, Commitment, Involvement and Belief.

Attachment- A Person’s Attachment to their job, family, community, church, friends would keep them from committing a crime because of the fear that they would have of what a person would think of them.

Commitment- A Person’s Commitment to their responsibilities keeps them from participating in acts that would be deemed delinquent because of fear of losing or being cut off from their current commitments like work and family.

Involvement- The more Involvement a Person has in extracurricular or shared experiences will keep a person from participating in delinquent behavior because they are involved in other items that will take precedence in their lives.

Belief- A Belief in god or a higher power will stop a person from behaving delinquently because the person will be afraid of eternal repercussions of their behavior, even though it may be a private act.

STUDENT SECTION: Impress Your Professor

Travis Hirschi can be referenced regarding the following topics:

Social Control, Social Injustice, Delinquency, Criminology, Control, Religion, Bond Theories, Relationships, Behavior, Social Norms, Human Behavior, Risk Factors

What do you think of Hirshi’s bond theories? Do you think Attachment, Commitment, Involvement or Belief is the most relevant in controlling people? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter!