Following are the features of social control in society?

RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2015

Applied Sociology

Medium

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2015

Explanation

Social control refers to the various means used by a society to bring its members back into line with cultural norms.
The correct option, 'Influence by society for welfare,' best encapsulates the core definition: the process (influence), the agent (society), and the purpose (collective welfare).
It is a broad societal process, not limited to specific groups or methods, aimed at maintaining social order and stability.

Option A: This option is too narrow. Social control is a function of society as a whole, not just a 'specific group'.
Option C: This describes agents of informal social control. While family and religion are important in shaping behavior, they are only parts of the larger system of social control.
Option D: The word 'suggestions' is too weak and incomplete. Social control encompasses a wide range of mechanisms, from gentle persuasion to forceful coercion and legal punishment.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Definition and Features of Social Control as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding social control helps nurses appreciate how societal norms, family dynamics, and community values impact a patient's health choices and adherence to treatment.
For instance, stigma (a form of informal social control) surrounding mental health or certain diseases like HIV/AIDS can be a major barrier preventing individuals from seeking timely medical care.
What if? If a patient from a community with strong beliefs in traditional healing (informal control) refuses a necessary surgery, a nurse must use culturally sensitive communication to educate the patient and family, bridging the gap between traditional beliefs and medical needs, rather than simply dismissing their views.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core concept of the question, which is 'social control'.
Recall the basic definition: Social control is the way society regulates itself and the behavior of its members.
Evaluate each option based on this broad definition.
Eliminate options that are too specific or narrow. Option A ('specific group') and Option C ('family and religious group') are too limited.
Eliminate options that use inaccurate or incomplete descriptions. Option D ('suggestions') is too weak, as control can also be coercive.
Select the option that provides the most accurate and comprehensive definition. Option B ('Influence by society for welfare') correctly identifies the agent (society), the process (influence), and the goal (welfare).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Applied Sociology for Nurses TK Indrani pp. 210-212, 215-217, 214-216