What is the difference between formal and informal control?

Formal control refers to established regulations, policies, and procedures enforced by organizations or authorities to ensure compliance and achieve specific outcomes. This type of control is typically documented and involves official mechanisms such as laws, rules, and performance evaluations. In contrast, informal control relies on social norms, peer pressure, and interpersonal relationships to influence behavior and maintain order without official sanction. Informal control is often more flexible and can adapt to changing circumstances, but may lack the consistency of formal control.