THE PREDICTIVE ABILITY OF SOCIAL CONTROL THEORY IN EXPLAINING VIOLENCE
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Abstract
This article is a theoretical examination of the predictive ability of social control theory in explaining violence and violent behaviour. Violent behaviour is of concern to all societies. After a review of various dimensions of control theory and violence, it is argued that individual and group socialization processes, social bonding and having a stake in society are attributes that could control (or inhibit), mitigate or enhance the culture and use of violence in any given society. However, moral relativism is a variable associated with the nature of social control and violence. It is suggested that policies, structures and support systems should be put in place that would educate and engage citizens and encourage integration or assimilation into society, hence facilitating adherence to laws, norms and values. This in turn would enable individuals to have fulfilled lives. In addition to operating a zero tolerance policy for violence, having clear rewards and sanctions for non-violent and violent behaviour respectively are good strategies to adopt