Module 23 “Social Control”

Deviance

Behavior that violates social norms.

Social Control

Techniques and strategies for preventing deviant behavior in society.

Evidence Based Policing

An approach that applies scientific research to inform police strategies and tactics.

Conformity

Going along with peers or social groups to behave in a certain way.

Obedience

Compliance with higher authorities in a hierarchical structure.

Control Theory

A theory suggesting that our connections to members of society lead us to conform to societal norms.

Hotspot Policing

Targeting resources to areas most likely to invite crime.

Labeling Theory

A theory that focuses on how being labeled as deviant affects an individual's behavior.

Functionalism

A perspective arguing that social norms are essential for the survival of a group or society.

Excessive Force

The use of more physical force by police than is necessary to take control of a situation.

Civilian Review Boards

Oversight groups that handle allegations of police misconduct.

Stigma

A mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person.

Formal Social Control

Control exerted by authorized agents such as police and judges.

Informal Social Control

Casual enforcement of norms through social interactions such as smiles or ridicule.

Problem Oriented Policing

An approach seeking to reduce crime by solving underlying problems.

Sanction

A reaction or response to behavior that violates social norms, which can be positive or negative.

Conflict Theory

A perspective that views society as composed of groups competing for scarce resources.

The Milgram Experiment

Research investigating obedience to authority, showing high levels of compliance even in harmful situations.

Collective Conformity

The tendency for individuals to align behaviors and beliefs with those of a group.

Deadly Force

Use of firearms or other means that could result in death by police in a confrontation.