Based on an analysis of criminal behavior in general, the theory determines the general characteristics of those most likely to be involved in crime. Low self-control is identified as the core characteristic of offenders in general. The concepts related to the theory are discussed: the general tendency for crime to decline with age, the versatility of the manifestations of low self-control, and the stability of low self-control over the life course. Given the validity of this theory, government policies that focus on incapacitation and rehabilitation relatively late in an offender's life will have little effect, since self-control must be developed early in life in interaction with parents. Policies that focus on long-term consequences for delinquent behavior will be ineffective and inefficient because they violate the nature of low self-control. Policies that target one manifestation of low self-control in the belief that it causes other aspects of low self-control misconstrue delinquency causes. Prevention programs that enhance the development of self-control in children have the best chance to reduce delinquency and crime. Measures that impede impulsive criminal behaviors and that make crime commission more difficult can be effective in crime reduction. 50 references