Travis Hirschi's control theory proposes that social bonds or attachments play a crucial role in preventing individuals from engaging in deviant behavior. People with weak attachments to family are more likely to follow cultural norms, according to Hirschi's theory. This is because strong social bonds act as a form of control, discouraging individuals from deviating from societal norms.
Travis Hirschi's control theory proposes that social bonds or attachments play a crucial role in preventing individuals from engaging in deviant behavior.
1. Understand Hirschi's Control Theory:
- - Travis Hirschi's control theory suggests that social bonds and attachments are essential for preventing individuals from engaging in deviant behavior.
- - The theory emphasizes the importance of social bonds as a form of social control that restrains individuals from violating societal norms.
2. Review Option (b):
- - 'People with weak attachments to family are more likely to follow cultural norms.'
3. Analyze the Correctness of the Statement:
- - According to Hirschi's control theory, individuals with weak attachments to family are actually more likely to engage in deviant behavior.
- - The theory posits that strong social bonds, such as family attachments, act as a form of control, discouraging individuals from deviating from societal norms.
4. Eliminate Incorrect Options:
- - Option (a) suggests that feeling unable to get ahead in life leads to deviance, but Hirschi's theory focuses on social bonds, not economic factors.
- - Option (c) states that the amount of free time does not affect deviant behavior, which does not align with Hirschi's emphasis on social bonds.
- - Option (d) mentions religion, but Hirschi's theory primarily focuses on social relationships rather than religious beliefs.
5. Select the Correct Option:
- - Based on the analysis, option (b) is consistent with Travis Hirschi's control theory. Weak attachments to family are associated with a higher likelihood of deviant behavior, as per the theory.
Therefore, the correct answer is:
b. People with weak attachments to family are more likely to follow cultural norms.