Control theory is the theory of deviance, which argues that the question is not, "Why do people deviate from society's norms?" Rather, the question is, "Why don't we deviate more than we do?"

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Control theory proposes that people are naturally inclined to deviate from societal norms, but social controls such as laws, norms, and institutions, as well as personal controls such as moral beliefs and self-control, prevent individuals from deviating too much. Therefore, the focus is on why people conform, rather than why they deviate.

Control Theory Is the Theory of Deviance, Which Argues That