Page 237 - Sociology and You

Chapter 7 Deviance and Social Control
What is external social control? Unfortunately for society, the process of socialization does not ensure that all people will conform all of the time. For this reason, external social control must also be present. External social control is based on social sanctions—rewards and punish- ments designed to encourage desired behavior. Positive sanctions, such as awards, increases in allowances, promotions, and smiles of approval, are used to encourage conformity. Negative sanctions, such as criticism, fines, and imprisonment, are intended to stop socially unacceptable behavior.
Sanctions may be formal or informal. Ridicule, gossip and smiles are ex- amples of informal sanctions. Imprisonment, low grades, and official awards are formal sanctions.
Section 1 Assessment
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1. What is the term sociologists use for behavior that significantly violates “ societal or group norms?
2. State a major problem sociologists have in defining deviance.
3. What is the purpose of a social sanction?
Critical Thinking
4. Applying Concepts At some point in growing up, nearly everyone displays some minor deviant behaviors, such as cutting class or telling a lie. Getting “caught” in such behaviors generally results in attempts at social control. Recall such an instance for yourself. How successful were these controls in changing your behavior? (Be specific as to the types of social control and their precise application to you.)
No crime is rational.
Livy Roman historian
social sanctions
rewards or punishments that encourage conformity to social norms
Because of its hurtful nature, gossip can be a very effective informal sanction.
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