Hirschi's Bonds of Attachment (Control Theory)

According to Hirschi, what are the four types of social bonds?

• attachment

• commitment

• involvement

• belief

What is the social bond of attachment?

• strong attachments to conventional social institutions (e.g., family, school, work)

• emotional attachments to parents, friends, teachers, etc.

• deviance may jeopardise an individual’s relationships

• fear of losing others’ respect and affection

• level of sensitivity to others’ opinions

What is the social bond of commitment?

• a strong commitment to conventional goals and activities (e.g., educational or career aspirations)

• personal investments in conventional lifestyles and achievements

• reluctancy to risk not achieving goals

• the risk of law enforcement officials or school authorities finding out about behaviour

What is the social bond of involvement?

• heavy involvement in conventional activities and social interactions

• having less time and opportunity to engage in deviant behaviour

• sports, hobbies, or community service occupying individuals’ time and energy

What is the social bond of belief?

• strongly adhere to conventional norms and values

• a deterrent to deviance

• internalise values

• feel obliged to abide by values

What are some criticisms of Hirschi’s bonds of attachment?

• does not really address the issue of why some members have secure bonds of attachment and others are marginalised

• Marxists and feminists argue that there is not a value consensus that benefits everyone

• society is characteristed by conflict