The Moderating Effect of Self-Control on the Victimization-Delinquency Relationship.

• In Event: Predictors and Moderators of Self-control on Crime

Abstract

Abstract
Purpose
Using self-report data from a cross-national study of students ages 12 to 15 years old, in 31 countries, the present study seeks to assess whether victimization actually causes offending and whether the effect of victimization on offending is moderated by self-control.

Methods
Logistic regression is utilized to evaluate causality.

Findings
Results reveal that low self-control shapes response to victimization. Those who were victimized and had low self-control were more likely to delay gratification. Additionally, individuals with low self-control were more likely to engage in substance abuse. There is a correlation between victimization, low self-control (which causes substance abuse) and violent offending as well.

Conclusion
Results suggest self-control, while a complex phenomenon, moderates the effect of victimization on offending. Thus, those who were victimized and also exhibited low levels of self-control were more likely to engage in delinquency and offending across various cultures.

Author

• Candice Denise Ammons-Blanfort, FIJ