In their analysis, Nagin and Paternoster found direct effects for variables from self-control and rational choice theories and called for more research into simultaneous examination of both theories. The current paper builds on their work by delineating a more highly specified model of rational offending in which the authors observe that research to date has not examined indirect effects of low self-control. Three hypotheses are advanced concerning the integration of self- control into a rational choice framework: (1) low self-control will have both direct and indirect effects via situational characteristics on intentions to shoplift and drive drunk; (2) situational characteristics will have direct effects on intentions to deviate, as well as effects on other situational factors; and (3) a model uniting effects of low self-control and situational characteristics will provide a good fit to data. Support for all three hypotheses is provided, and the authors suggest that future theoretical developments can be improved by integrating low self-control with situational characteristics in a more general model of offending. 64 references, 12 footnotes, 6 tables, and 2 figures