Formal vs Informal Social Control: Understanding the Differences

Formal vs Informal Social Control: Understanding the Differences

Have you ever wondered about how society maintains law and order? How does it ensure that everyone abides by the rules and regulations set by the government? If you have, then you might have come across two types of social control – formal and informal.

Social control refers to the various mechanisms used by society to regulate the behavior of its members. While it helps maintain social order, its methods can differ based on the situation. Understanding the differences between formal and informal social control can help you understand how society maintains law and order.

The Basics of Formal Social Control

Formal social control refers to the official actions taken by the state to regulate behavior. This mechanism relies on rigid laws and regulations enforced by institutions such as the police, courts, and government agencies. Formal social control aims to enforce specific rules and punish those who break them.

Examples of formal social control include the judicial system, the educational system, and the penal system. These systems rely on a set of rules and regulations enforced through legally-binding means. The sanctions for breaking these rules can vary from fines to imprisonment.

The Basics of Informal Social Control

Informal social control involves the unofficial methods used to regulate behavior. This mechanism relies on social norms and values to guide individuals’ behavior in a group setting. Informal social control aims to prevent deviance and nonconformity by establishing cultural norms and expectations.

Examples of informal social control include socialization, peer pressure, and shaming. These methods rely on the social approval or disapproval of an individual’s behavior. They can be subtle and may go unnoticed by the violator or the rest of society.

The Differences between Formal and Informal Social Control

While both formal and informal social control aim to regulate behavior, they differ in many ways. Formal social control is based on laws and regulations, while informal social control relies on social norms and values.

Another significant difference is the use of force. Formal social control relies on the use of force to ensure compliance with laws and regulations. Informal social control, on the other hand, relies on social pressure and coercion.

Formal social control relies on institutions, while informal social control relies on social groups. Institutions such as the police and the courts implement formal social control, while the community enforces informal social control.

The Role of Formal and Informal Social Control in Society

Formal and informal social control play vital roles in maintaining law and order in society. In many cases, formal social control is necessary to regulate behavior and address deviance. It provides a clear set of rules and regulations that everyone must abide by.

However, informal social control is also necessary in maintaining social order. It provides a social bond among community members and reinforces cultural norms and values. Informal social control can also prevent the escalation of deviance into criminal behavior.

Conclusion

Understanding formal and informal social control is crucial in understanding how society maintains law and order. While they differ in many ways, each mechanism plays a vital role in regulating individual behavior. By having a strong social control system, society can maintain stability, order, and safety.