Control Theory

  1. Tries to explain why people do not commit crimes.

  2. Support the view that people require nurturing to develop attachments or bonds that are key in producing internal controls such as conscience.

  3. Crime is a result of insufficient attachment and commitment to others.

Hirschis bonds theory

Identified 4 bonds of attachment that keep people closely linked to society and ensure social control and order


  1. Attachment

    • how much we care what others think

    • We might particularly care about what our spouses or children are pile think if we committed crimes.

  2. Commitment

    • what have we got to loose

    • If we have a good job commuting a crime out a lot at risk

  3. Involvement

    • how involved we are in society

    • What takes up our time

    • If we work and are involved in a group of hobbies or leisure activities or volunteering would we have Time to commit a crime.

  4. Belief

    • to what extent do we believe obeying the law is the right thing to do

    • How strong is our personal moral code



Turning this on its head

  1. Those who are more likely to commit crimes are those who do not have family attachments, work commitments, get involved in school, have a clear moral code.

  2. Criminal

    • someone marginalised, young and single.