Which concept is guided by personal morals and societal norms within social control?

• A. Internal Forms of Social Control
• B. External Forms of Social Control
• C. Control Theory
• D. Retribution

Answer: (A)

Internal forms of social control are the ways people regulate their behavior from within, shaped by personal morals and the norms learned through socialization. When someone internalizes beliefs about right and wrong, they monitor themselves and conform even when no one is watching. Feelings of guilt or pride guide actions, keeping behavior aligned with societal expectations. This self-regulation best matches the idea of behavior guided by personal morals and societal norms within social control.

External forms involve sanctions imposed by others, such as laws, policing, or social penalties. Control Theory explains why people conform in terms of social bonds and attachments, rather than the internal moral compass itself. Retribution centers on punishing someone after a crime, rather than explaining how internal morals steer behavior.