Criminogenic Strain, Emotions, and Aggressive Intentions: A Gendered Assessment of General Strain Theory

• In Event: General Strain Theory and the Role of Negative Emotion

Abstract

Criminologists have long been interested in general strain theory’s ability to explain crime and deviant behavior across genders. This study extends this line of inquiry by examining gender differences in emotional and behavioral responses to criminogenic strain. Using survey data from a university-based sample (N = 503), this study pursues four research objectives. First, it assesses whether emotional reactions to criminogenic strain differ between male and female participants. Second, it examines whether the effects of two state emotions (anger and depression) on behavioral intentions vary by gender. Third, it evaluates whether male and female participants experiencing heightened emotional states are equally likely to engage in both passive and active forms of aggression. Finally, it tests whether emotional traits similarly condition the effects of strain and state emotions for both genders. The results are discussed with an emphasis on theoretical implications and directions for future research.

Authors

• Margaret Wood, Arizona State University

• Michael D. Reisig, Arizona State University