Formal social control refers to the mechanisms and processes used by authorised agents and institutions within society to maintain order, enforce laws, and ensure conformity to established norms and rules. These agents include police officers, judges, school administrators, employers, and other individuals who have been given the authority to enforce social norms and impose sanctions when violations occur. Formal social control is characterised by its reliance on written rules, laws, and regulations, as well as established procedures for identifying and punishing deviant behaviour. Examples of formal social control mechanisms include arrests, prosecutions, disciplinary actions, and legal penalties. It plays a crucial role in maintaining social stability and protecting societal values and interests, often working in conjunction with informal social control mechanisms, such as social disapproval and peer pressure.