The aim of the survey was to assess the extent to which lack or loss of control contributed to the occurrence of violent acts. Data were obtained from 23 supervising probation officers in two administrative districts of Merseyside using a structured questionnaire and interview schedule in which offense incidents were described and analyzed using prescribed guidelines. Primary causal factors listed by probation officers as contributing to violent offenses included anger, emotional reaction, lack of control, family and marital conflict, interpersonal provocation, alcohol and other drugs, financial strain, unemployment, and attitudes. Offenders indicated a significant need for improving self-control. Results suggested that loss of self-control played an important role in acts of personal violence and that a significant proportion of offenders would benefit from self-control training and be motivated to change. 16 references and 3 tables