Control has long been an underlying theme in theoretical discussions of health. Social ties may provide direct control by regulating and facilitating healthier behaviors or indirect control by instilling norms (e.g., responsibility) conducive to healthier behavior (Umberson 1992). Through this process, social ties may also promote personal control, which refers to an individual’s belief that he/she can control personal outcomes through his/her own actions (Mirowsky & Ross 2003). Those who are higher on personal control have more knowledge about health and are more likely to engage in preventive behaviors (e.g., start exercising) and to reduce risky behaviors (e.g., heavy alcohol consumption). Importantly, social ties may affect personal control for better (perhaps through social support) or for worse (perhaps through stress) (Mirowsky & Ross 2003).
