On the Measurement of Self-Control: Internal Consistency, Dimensionality, and Predictive Validity of Self-Control Scales in Four Nationally Representative Data Sets

• In Event: Research on the Measurement of Self-Control

Abstract

Self-control theory is arguably one of the most influential criminological theories of the past two decades. Although there have been studies specifically designed to measure self-control, the majority of research has used secondary data, including large, nationally representative data sets, to examine the association between self-control and criminal behavior. A consequence of using secondary data has been the necessity of relying on survey questions designed for various purposes to measure self-control. This has led to a lack of consistency in how self-control is operationalized. The purpose of this research is to use four nationally representative surveys (Add Health, NLSY, NYS & NELS) to examine the internal consistency, dimensionality, and predictive validity of several self-control scales that have been used in previous studies and to consider alternative measurement approaches. We conclude with recommendations regarding the development of a self-control scale using common survey items.

Authors

• Scott E. Wolfe, University of South Carolina

• John P. Hoffmann, University of South Carolina