Social control refers to the various ways in which society regulates and influences individuals' behavior to ensure conformity to social norms and values. This can be achieved through formal institutions such as laws and regulations, as well as informal mechanisms such as socialization, peer pressure, and normative expectations. Social control can be exerted by various entities including the state, organizations, communities, and individuals. The study of social control seeks to understand how these mechanisms operate and their impact on individuals and society as a whole. This research area often intersects with fields such as sociology, criminology, psychology, and political science.