Strain, Self-Control, and the Link Between Violent Victimization and Offending

• In Event: Self-Control, Strain and the Victimization-Offending Link

Abstract

Research consistently finds that experiencing criminal victimization significantly increases the likelihood of future criminal offending. General strain theory suggests that this pattern exists because victimization leads to negative emotions, which, in turn, lead to offending. Additionally, general strain theory argues that self-control shapes an individual’s response to strain. We test these arguments using longitudinal data from the Family and Community Health Study (FACHS) with structural equation modeling, examining the influence of violent victimization on criminal behavior among African American young adults. First, we examine how negative emotions mediate the effects of violent victimization on offending. Then, we focus on how self-control influences the nature of these relationships. Results suggest partial support for general strain theory.

Authors

• Jackson Bunch, University of Montana

• Jody Clay-Warner, University of Georgia

• Ronald L. Simons, University of Georgia