A first look at measuring self-reported delinquency and victimization via internet samples in ISRD4 for the U.S.:Some substantive and method results

• In Event: ISRD Panel 1 Methodological and Ethical Issues in Cross-National Surveys

Abstract

This paper examines findings from a large (4,000 respondents) internet based, national sample of 15-18 year olds using the brief ISRD4 instrument for measuring self-reported delinquency and victimization. Common demographic and theoretical variables (e.g., self-control, morality, opportunity) are compared to results of recent school-based samples. Issues involved in convenience sampling methods (selection, response bias, and cost) in the context of these alternative strategies are reviewed and considered in light of these results.

Authors

• Mikaela Sky Nielsen, University of California, Irvine

• Michael Gottfredson, University of California, Irvine

• Ineke Haen Marshall, Northeastern University