Which of the following is classified as formal social control?

Formal social control refers to the regulatory mechanisms that are established by formal institutions and authorities to enforce norms and laws within a society. It typically involves official sanctions and penalties to discourage unwanted behavior and promote conformity to social norms.

Law enforcement agencies are an example of formal social control because they operate within a structured legal framework, have the authority to enforce laws, and can impose penalties for law violations, including arrest and prosecution. This is in stark contrast to informal social control mechanisms, which may come from family, peers, or community members, such as parents and teachers, who guide and influence behavior through their social roles but do not have legal authority to impose formal consequences.

Understanding the function of law enforcement agencies helps to highlight their unique position in maintaining order and preventing crime through established legal procedures and protocols.