Which of the following best defines formal social control?

The definition of formal social control is indeed best captured by the enforcement of societal norms through legal consequences. This concept refers to the structured mechanisms established by society to maintain order and adherence to accepted norms and rules. These mechanisms include legal codes, regulations, and institutions such as the police, courts, and correctional systems, which ensure compliance through formal penalties and sanctions.

In contrast to this, other options describe different forms of social influence or mechanisms of control. The first option, which speaks to a type of influence stemming from social interactions, implies a more informal and personal system of socialization, focusing on interpersonal relationships rather than official regulation. The second option references community action, which can be indicative of informal social control, where norms are upheld through community expectations rather than legal structures. Lastly, informal practices guiding behavior in social settings highlight the unwritten rules and social norms that govern behavior without formal enforcement.

By focusing on official regulation through legal consequences, the selected answer accurately encapsulates the essence of formal social control, distinguishing it from more informal types of social influence.