Rural Sociology and Psycology

1.6.6.Types of Social Control

Different Sociologists hold different views upon the types of Social Control. Karl Mannheim’s view on the types of Social Control are given as follows

1. Direct Social Control: This type of control is exercised upon the individual by the reaction of the people living in proximity. Such control is usually found in the family, neighbourhood, play group and other primary groups.

2. Indirect Social Control: This means control of the individual by secondary groups which are separated from him. Prominent means of indirect Social Control are traditions, institutions, customs, rationalsed behaviour, changes in situations, Social mechanisms etc. These means are invisible and subtle.

Kimbail Young has classified Social Control into the following two types.

(i) Positive: Rewards in the farm of Social recognition, fame, respect, etc. are given to these who constantly endeavour to conform to traditions, mores, valves and ideals accepted by the Society. A large part of population of the society derives to be recorded by the Society by conforming ideals accepted by the Society.

(ii) Negative : The types of Social Controls in which a person is prevented from doing something by threat of punishment fall under this type. A Society discourages and prevents its people from some activities by inculcating fear of punishment which can be moderate or severe, physical or verbal or in any form.

Eg: Defamation, criticism, ridicule, extradition from caste etc.