Sociology Plus
Control Balance Theory Definition
Control Balance Theory is a general, integrated framework designed to explain deviant behaviour exhibited by both individuals and organisations, encompassing phenomena such as conformity and submission. The theory posits that the likelihood of an individual engaging in deviance is determined by the state of control imbalance and the presence of motivating provocation. Deviant behaviour is defined as actions disapproved of by the majority or those that elicit negative social reactions, meaning the theory provides a mechanism for understanding criminal acts as well as other forms of deviance.
Core Concepts and Mechanism
The foundation of the theory rests on the concept of control imbalance, which describes the differential amount of control an entity (individual or organisation) exerts over circumstances compared to the control it is subjected to. These relative amounts are quantified as control ratios, which indicate a system’s balance, deficit, or surplus. When a control imbalance exists alongside a motivating provocation, specific deviant acts are selected from a continuum of Control Balance Desirability (CBD). The selection process involves ‘control balancing’, where actors weigh the perceived gain in control from potential misbehaviour against the anticipated counter-control that the act might provoke.
Motivation and Choice of Deviance
Deviance is not automatically produced by a desire for greater control; it requires awareness of the imbalance, typically triggered by situational reminders, such as denigration or humiliation. Actors become motivated toward deviance when they perceive that misbehaviour offers a route to alleviate their control deficit. This motivation translates into action only if the opportunity exists and if potential counter-controls are not perceived as outweighing the potential gain. The strength of this motivation predicts the likelihood of engaging in some form of deviance.
Implications for Behaviour
The specific deviant act chosen is determined by a convergence of several factors, including the control imbalance, provocation, motivation, opportunity, and control balancing, all reflected in the CBD score. Individuals with balanced control ratios are generally more conformist due to greater potential counter-control, whereas those experiencing overwhelming deficits may resort to submission. While this process allows for the selection of an act within a restricted range of CBD, the theory cannot predict the exact specific behaviour (e.g., stealing versus assaulting) because personal factors like intelligence, habits, and moral commitments also influence the final choice.
Validity and Criticism
The empirical validity of Control Balance Theory currently rests primarily on theoretical argument rather than extensive empirical testing. Although research suggests that control imbalances are significant predictors of deviance, early challenges led to a major revision of the theory. However, whether the refined version fully fulfils its theoretical promise remains an open question awaiting further rigorous testing.