The theory postulates that criminal behavior is the result of low or absent self-control. It is appealingly simple, yet can be used to explain many social phenomena. However, this theory pays inadequate attention to gendered power differences and inequalities and their impact on family and economic relations, and criminality. Therefore, it assumes gender neutrality when such is not the reality, and implicitly imposes more stringent standards on the behavior of women than on that of men. Moreover, this theory would suggest that women, who are primarily responsible for child care and socialization, are responsible for contemporary criminality. The theory fails to challenge social institutions that facilitate violence by men against women. 16 endnotes and 40 references