Social Control Theory In End Of Watch

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Social Control Theory
It is evident the social control theory is strongly emphasized in the film End of Watch after reading chapter 6 Social Process and Social Development in the textbook, Criminology 2nd ed. by Frank Schmalleger. There are three bonds that are expressed in the movie, End of Watch. The bonds are between the two main characters, Brian Taylor and Miguel Zavala, the Los Angeles Police Department, and Miguel and Bloods gang member, Tre. In this essay, I plan to demonstrate a working knowledge of the social control theory and how it relates to the main characters of the movie.
Social Control Theory
I believe the characters Brian Taylor and Miguel Zavala in this movie displayed the characteristics that follow the guidelines of the …show more content…

Although, Tre is on the opposite of the law he soon gains respect for Miguel after engaging in a fist fight with him. Tre feels he shares a bond with Miguel because he did not charge Tre with assault after winning the fight. Later in the movie, Tre also tells Miguel that another gang is plotting to murder him and his partner.
There is also evidence the Los Angeles Police Department share a bond among each other in the movie End of Watch. It appears there is a code of loyalty among those who are a part of the LAPD. One can see there is a close relationship between the members of law enforcement even through all the foul language, crude jokes, and the occasional pranks. An example of the social control theory is shown at Miguel’s funeral and Brian’s wedding. In each incident, there is a great police presence to support their fellow officers. It seems that the organization illustrates the structure of a family when celebrating Brian’s marriage and mourning the loss of Miguel.
Finally, the film End of Watch is a perfect illustration of the social control theory. The movie provided an understanding of why individuals share a connection that is not based on their own culture. However, the social control theory explains the union people share with the others and associations around them forms people’s