Intersection takeovers: “What’s the big deal? We ain't hurting anyone”

• In Event: Poster Session 1

Abstract

Neutralization theory posits that individuals use various linguistic techniques to free themselves from guilt associated with offending and/or to maintain a non-criminal self-image. Drawing on interviews with 25 individuals who takeover intersections in order to perform dangerous driving acts, this study explores their use of Skyes and Matza’s five techniques of neutralizations and the reasons they give for drifting in an out of offending. Results suggest that offenders have several common stressors that lead them to engage in illegal intersection takeovers and that they make extensive use of neutralization techniques to justify their actions.

Author

• Arthur Gregory Vasquez, University of Texas at Dallas