12). According to Hirshi's social control theory, when an individual lacks developmental relationships or when they lack role models in their life (as cited in Parent, 2009, p.3). Social control theory states that every individual bond is formed divided into four elements. Three elements can be applied to the relationship Shipman had developed with Vera over the years. This theory can help demonstrate the importance of positive social connections in one's life. It is very likely that Shipman put his patients on the spot due to the lack of love and support in his life after his mother's death. The first element in social control theory is attachment (Siegel, Brown & Hoffman, 2013, p. 144). According to Hirsh, attachment with a parent is the most important bond a person should form in their life (p.144). In Shipman's case, he had a bond with his mother at a young age, Shipman and his mother got along very well with each other. The second element in social control theory is commitment (p.144). From a young age Shipman was committed, first committed to his relationship with his mother. When she was suffering from the side effects of cancer he cared for her daily. After his death, he committed to attending medical school and becoming a doctor so he could get to know people. The third element in Hirshi's theory is involvement (p.144). “Heavy involvement in conventional activities leaves little or no time for illegal behavior” (Siegel, Brown & Hoffman, 2013, p. 144). After Shipman's mother died, he went into a downward spiral. He had no one else with whom he had formed a special and unique bond. In 1975 Shipman became addicted to a painkiller (pethidine). The lack of "conventional activities" in Shipman's life left room for "illegal behavior", in his case it was the abuse of painkillers