Testing a Developmental Theory of Self-control and Offender Perceptions

• In Event: Refining the Analysis of Individual Differences in Criminology: Biosocial Contributions

Abstract

The current study integrated often contrasting concepts in developmental criminology with low self-control and perceptions of crime. While most of the traditional literature on these topics often find them at odds, some extant studies and theoretical proposals have begun to consolidate them. Evidence on youth executive functioning has shown that the development of self-control stems from proper brain development. Research has also found low self-control and perceptions of crime to be associated. Using structural equation modeling, the current study examined the relationship and developmental patterns of these concepts in a sample of offenders from the Pathways to Desistance data using multiple categories of crime. Findings indicate that measures of executive functioning affect self-control, which consequently affects perceptions of crime. Perceptions of crime were also found to influence participation in different crime categories. Findings from this study can inform further development of theories in the life-course/developmental perspective.

Author

• Sultan Altikriti, University of Cincinnati