Examining the Invariance of Self-Control on Delinquent Behavior

• In Event: New Directions in Research on Self-Control Theory

Abstract

There is abundant research indicating that low self-control is associated with greater involvement in delinquent behavior. However, research also suggests that there may be variable effects of self-control by sex and race/ethnicity, even though its originators asserted that it serves as a general theory of crime. Drawing on the literatures on racial/ethnic and gender socialization, we develop a set of hypotheses that directly implicate the invariance thesis of self-control. We then test these hypotheses using a nationally representative sample of adolescents and a recently developed measurement strategy for self-control. Implications for the study of self-control and its role as a general theory of crime are discussed.

Authors

• John P. Hoffmann, Brigham Young University

• Scott Wolfe, University of South Carolina